What is «SppExtComObjHook.dll»?
The SppExtComObjHook.dll file is associated with various illegal software activation tools such as KMSPico, AutoKMS, Re-Loader, and KMSAuto.
These tools active Microsoft Windows or Office products without requiring payment. Typically, anti-virus or anti-spyware suites detect the SppExtComObjHook.dll file as a threat when opening one of the aforementioned (or other) activation tools. Using these tools is illegal and they often infect computers with malware.
«SppExtComObjHook.dll» overview
Typically, activation tools such as KMSAuto, KMSPico, AutoKMS, and Re-Loader can be downloaded from various dubious websites, and some might be presented as «official». There are many cases whereby installed anti-virus or anti-spyware programs prevent people from opening downloaded executable files that supposedly install ‘cracking’ tools.
As mentioned, security programs detect SppExtComObjHook.dll when one of these activation tools is opened. This alone indicates that tools of this type cannot be trusted. Cyber criminals use them to proliferate malicious programs — activation tools download and install malware rather than activating other software.
This makes it convenient for criminals to trick people into causing installation of malware by encouraging them to disable their anti-virus or anti-spyware programs before launching an ‘activator’. In doing so, people allow malware to be installed without detection. Unwanted download and installation of malware is not the only problem caused by these tools.
They are often used to distribute cryptocurrency mining programs. These programs use computer resources and force computers to consume excessive power. Therefore, infected computers work slower and people receive higher electricity bills. Remember, software ‘cracking’ tools cause serious problems and using them is illegal.
Threat Summary:
| Name | SppExtComObjHook.dll trojan |
| Threat Type | Trojan, Password-stealing virus, Banking malware, Spyware |
| Detection Names | BitDefender (Application.Hacktool.KMSAuto.U), ESET-NOD32 (a variant of Win64/HackKMS.C potentially unsafe), Kaspersky (not-a-virus:RiskTool.Win64.ProcPatcher.a), Microsoft (HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS), Full List (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Trojans are designed to stealthily infiltrate the victim’s computer and remain silent, and thus no particular symptoms are clearly visible on an infected machine. |
| Distribution methods | Infected email attachments, malicious online advertisements, social engineering, software cracks. |
| Damage | Stolen banking information, passwords, identity theft, victim’s computer added to a botnet. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) |
To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. Download Combo Cleaner To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by RCS LT, the parent company of PCRisk.com. |
Illegal software activation tool examples
KMSPico, AutoKMS, and Re-Loader are examples of just some activation tools — there are many more. Typically, these tools are created by different cyber criminals. Some might not proliferate malicious programs, however, it is illegal to use them anyway. To avoid computer infections, financial loss and other problems, we recommend that you activate all software properly.
How did «SppExtComObjHook.dll» infiltrate my computer?
The SppExtComObjHook.dll file infiltrates systems through KMSPico, AutoKMS, Re-Loader, KMSAuto or other activation tools. Alternatively, they can infiltrate through Windows installers that already have an activation tool implemented. In addition to software ‘cracking’ tools, cyber criminals choose other ways to proliferate malware.
For example, spam email campaigns, trojans, untrustworthy software download sources and fake software updaters/updating tools. Using spam campaigns, they send emails that contain an attachment or website link. Typically, cyber criminals attach a Microsoft Office document, PDF document, archive file (ZIP, RAR), executable file (.exe) or JavaScript file.
The main goal of these emails is to trick people into opening the files. If opened, the attachment installs a malicious program. A trojan is another malicious program that, if installed, causes chain infections. One of the purposes of trojans is to proliferate viruses.
Cyber criminals proliferate malware through Peer-to-Peer networks (such as torrents, eMule and so on), freeware download websites, free file hosting sites, unofficial websites and other such tools. They attempt to trick people into downloading and opening malicious files that are disguised as legitimate.
If they succeed, people end up downloading and installing computer infections. Fake (unofficial) software update tools cause computer infections by exploiting bugs/flaws of outdated software or by downloading (and installing) malware rather than the promised updates, fixes, etc.
How to avoid installation of malware?
Download, install and update software, and browse the web responsibly. It is not safe to open attachments (or web links) that are present in emails received from unknown, suspicious email addresses. If they seem irrelevant, they should be ignored and the contents should remain unopened.
We recommend that you keep installed software updated, however, use implemented functions or tools that are provided by official developers only. The same applies to software activation. These tools are illegal and cannot be trusted. Furthermore, avoid downloading software from untrustworthy or unofficial sources.
The best way to download is to using official web pages and direct download links. Additionally, have reputable anti-spyware or anti-virus software installed and keep it enabled at all times. If you believe that your computer is already infected, we recommend running a scan with
Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate infiltrated malware.
Website promoting KMSAuto activation tool:
Screenshot of KMSAuto program:
Instant automatic malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner
By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by RCS LT, the parent company of PCRisk.com.
Quick menu:
- What is SppExtComObjHook.dll?
- STEP 1. Manual removal of SppExtComObjHook.dll malware.
- STEP 2. Check if your computer is clean.
How to remove malware manually?
Manual malware removal is a complicated task — usually it is best to allow antivirus or anti-malware programs to do this automatically. To remove this malware we recommend using
Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows.
If you wish to remove malware manually, the first step is to identify the name of the malware that you are trying to remove. Here is an example of a suspicious program running on a user’s computer:
If you checked the list of programs running on your computer, for example, using task manager, and identified a program that looks suspicious, you should continue with these steps:
Download a program called Autoruns. This program shows auto-start applications, Registry, and file system locations:
Restart your computer into Safe Mode:
Windows XP and Windows 7 users: Start your computer in Safe Mode. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart, click OK. During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until you see the Windows Advanced Option menu, and then select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Video showing how to start Windows 7 in «Safe Mode with Networking»:
Windows 8 users: Start Windows 8 is Safe Mode with Networking — Go to Windows 8 Start Screen, type Advanced, in the search results select Settings. Click Advanced startup options, in the opened «General PC Settings» window, select Advanced startup.
Click the «Restart now» button. Your computer will now restart into the «Advanced Startup options menu». Click the «Troubleshoot» button, and then click the «Advanced options» button. In the advanced option screen, click «Startup settings».
Click the «Restart» button. Your PC will restart into the Startup Settings screen. Press F5 to boot in Safe Mode with Networking.
Video showing how to start Windows 8 in «Safe Mode with Networking»:
Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon. In the opened menu click «Restart» while holding «Shift» button on your keyboard. In the «choose an option» window click on the «Troubleshoot», next select «Advanced options».
In the advanced options menu select «Startup Settings» and click on the «Restart» button. In the following window you should click the «F5» button on your keyboard. This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.
Video showing how to start Windows 10 in «Safe Mode with Networking»:
Extract the downloaded archive and run the Autoruns.exe file.
In the Autoruns application, click «Options» at the top and uncheck «Hide Empty Locations» and «Hide Windows Entries» options. After this procedure, click the «Refresh» icon.
Check the list provided by the Autoruns application and locate the malware file that you want to eliminate.
You should write down its full path and name. Note that some malware hides process names under legitimate Windows process names. At this stage, it is very important to avoid removing system files. After you locate the suspicious program you wish to remove, right click your mouse over its name and choose «Delete».
After removing the malware through the Autoruns application (this ensures that the malware will not run automatically on the next system startup), you should search for the malware name on your computer. Be sure to enable hidden files and folders before proceeding. If you find the filename of the malware, be sure to remove it.
Reboot your computer in normal mode. Following these steps should remove any malware from your computer. Note that manual threat removal requires advanced computer skills. If you do not have these skills, leave malware removal to antivirus and anti-malware programs.
These steps might not work with advanced malware infections. As always it is best to prevent infection than try to remove malware later. To keep your computer safe, install the latest operating system updates and use antivirus software. To be sure your computer is free of malware infections, we recommend scanning it with
Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is «SppExtComObjHook.dll»?
«SppExtComObjHook.dll» is a file associated with illegal software activation tools («cracks»). In addition to these «cracking» tools being illegal, they are commonly bundled with (or used as a disguise for) malware. Therefore, the presence of SppExtComObjHook.dll on a system may be an indicator of a trojan, ransomware, cryptominer, or a different malware infection.
My computer is infected with malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?
No, most malicious programs do not require formatting to be removed.
What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?
The threats posed by malware depend on the program’s capabilities and the cyber criminals’ modus operandi. Generally, malware can cause multiple system infections, diminished system performance or failure, permanent data loss, hardware damage, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
What is the purpose of malware?
In most cases, cyber criminals use malware to generate revenue. However, this software can also be used to amuse the criminals, disrupt processes (e.g., websites, services, companies, etc.), carry out personal vendettas, or launch politically/geopolitically motivated attacks.
Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner is designed to detect and eliminate threats. It is capable of removing practically all known malware infections. However, it must be stressed that sophisticated malicious programs usually hide deep within systems — therefore, performing a full system scan is paramount.
First of all, let me be a psychic for 5 seconds and tell you, “I know you’re using a pirated copy of Windows activated by some tool like KMSpico.”
How do I know?
Read the eighth word of this post.
Now that I have your attention with this fantastic God-tier meme, let me provide you with some intel regarding what this process is, if it is safe or malicious, and how to deal with it (I solemnly swear I am not going to tell you to “deal wit it”).
Intel
Intel 1: The process & its origin
The process ‘SppExtComObjHook.dll’ and some other files—most of them having the ‘Spp’ prefix—are all related to the Windows activating tool known as KMSpico. The files being referred to are shown below:
All these files are located in the System32 folder in Windows and the nature of these files are mostly unknown.
Intel 2: Safe or malicious?
Although various antivirus and antimalware applications detect the ‘SppExtComObjHook.dll’ file as malicious, it is completely harmless and malignant. At least up till now. It has not known to cause any issues or usage of system resources (CPU, RAM, etc.) as of yet. Just a few security applications have flagged the file as malicious but that is a mere false positive. You should know what that is by now, you filthy SKIDROW pirate.
But just in case, if this process is somewhat of a sleeper agent file and becomes sentient (w0ke.exe) some day, I will not be responsible for the chaos and rebellion it causes.
Just kidding, file’s safe. Quit being a pansy.
How To Still Remove It
You still do not feel safe with the process running all the time in your Task Manager, and you want it gone. All this while maintaining your pirated and activated copy of “genuine” Windows. Don’t worry, pirate. I’ve got you covered. I was in the same boat (get it? Pirate? Boat? Told you, memeg0d).
Step 1: Enable showing file extensions
In order to make this solution work, you will have to be able to read and edit file extensions. This can be done by pressing the Start key and typing in “Folder options”. The first result to likely be shown should be the Control Panel entry for either “Folder Options” or “File Explorer Options”, depending on which version of Windows you have.
Click on that result:
You should now have a Folder Options window appear. Go to the “View” tab and search for the “Hide extensions for known file types” option. Once you have found it, uncheck the box next to it, as shown below:
Done. You have enabled showing file extensions.
Step 2: Navigate to the .dll file
Go to your System32 directory, which is located in the Windows directory. Typically, this should be:
C:\Windows\System32
Now, scroll down until you reach the block of files which have the “Spp” prefix (assuming you have the files alphabetically arranged in ascending order). The file we need to focus upon due to our Task Manager issue, is SppExtComObjHook.dll, highlighted below:
Step 3: Dealing wit it
Now, you can obviously just delete this file and have no consequences. But just to be safe, let’s choose the safest approach to this issue. We will make a blank dummy file with the same name that is 100% harmless (since you’re making it, you’d be 100% sure) so that when it is executed and called upon by the KMSpico service, nothing really happens.
For this, first go to the Task Manager and end the SppExtComObjHook.dll process. This will allow us to make some changes in the further steps.
After doing so, go back to the System32 folder and rename the .dll file to have some other extension, any other extension, just so it is not able to execute. For example, I chose “.NOPE” as the extension:
We have made sure that Windows will not execute this process anymore automatically since it is not even a functional extension anymore.
Now, just in case this process’s execution is in some way crucial to your copy of Windows being activated and “genuine”, we will make a dummy duplicate file. This can be done by creating a new text document. To do so, right-click in an empty area in the same folder, and select “New”, then “Text Document”. Like so:
This text document can be empty, or you can fill it with rainbows and unicorns or your dreams. It doesn’t matter. None of the things mentioned matter. All are the same as the first option—empty.
Next, rename this text file exactly as the .dll file that’s causing you insecurity issues—”SppExtComObjHook”:
Then, taking advantage of the extension setting we changed in step 1, change the “.txt” part to “.dll”, like so:
Push Enter. You will be shown a prompt asking if you really want to change the extension of the file:
Hit the “Hell Yeah” button. You will now have a decoy SppExtComObjHook.dll file that doesn’t do anything at all.
Done. You have rendered the original .dll file harmless completely even if it already was harmless in the first place, and for extra security, you even made a 100% harmless replacement of it that even if executed, won’t do anything at all.
Your sense of security should now be at level 9,000+, and if not, then welcome to the void.
8 часов назад, Garrling сказал:
У меня аналогичная проблема
с чего вы решили, что она аналогичная, если она проявляется по другому?
Скриншот:
8 часов назад, Garrling сказал:
Касперский своим таким поведением вызывает ошибку в «активированном» Ворде при запуске
покажите.
8 часов назад, Garrling сказал:
поиск по файлам не нашёл такого имени
Потому что активатор у вас видимо другой (если дело вообще в нем).
What is Sppextcomobjhook.dll? Security professionals has determined that Sppextcomobjhook.dll is a part of Windows crack tool. Is your antivirus constantly sending alerts of blocked infection of a malware named Sppextcomobjhook.dll? It means that your computer is infected with a nasty malicious software.
If you still are not sure that your PC is affected with malware, then check your PC for the common symptoms of this infection:
- your internet browser displays ads where previously you have never seen;
- Internet Explorer, MS Edge, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome displays a huge number of annoying advertisements;
- web browser settings like home page and search engine are hijacked;
- your antivirus software detects an infection;
- Internet connection may be slow.
While the Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus is active, you won’t be able to restore your PC settings. But this does not mean that you should just ignore it or get along with this fact. Because this is not the best option, due to the Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus you can have problems with your PC system and web browsers, annoying ads and even user data theft.
The tutorial below explaining steps to remove Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus problem. Feel free to use it for removal of this virus that may attack Windows 10 and other popular versions of Microsoft Windows OS. The steps will also help you return your PC settings which previously replaced by this virus.
How to remove Sppextcomobjhook.dll from personal computer
In most cases this malicious software requires more than a simple uninstall with the help of MS Windows Control panel in order to be fully removed. For that reason, our team made several removal methods which we have combined in a detailed guidance. Therefore, if you have the Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus on your personal computer and are currently trying to have it deleted then feel free to follow the few simple steps below in order to resolve your problem. Read this manual carefully, bookmark or print it, because you may need to close your browser or reboot your PC system.
To remove Sppextcomobjhook.dll, execute the steps below:
- Delete suspicious applications using Windows Control Panel
- Use Zemana Free to remove Sppextcomobjhook.dll
- Use HitmanPro to delete Sppextcomobjhook.dll from the machine
- How to automatically get rid of Sppextcomobjhook.dll with MalwareBytes Anti-Malware
- How to stay safe online
- To sum up
Delete suspicious applications using Windows Control Panel
First method for manual virus removal is to go into the MS Windows “Control Panel”, then “Uninstall a program” console. Take a look at the list of applications on your computer and see if there are any dubious and unknown applications. If you see any, you need to remove them. Of course, before doing so, you can do an Web search to find details on the application. If it is a potentially unwanted program, adware or malware, you will likely find information that says so.
Windows 8, 8.1, 10
Windows XP, Vista, 7
Use Zemana Free to remove Sppextcomobjhook.dll
We suggest using the Zemana AntiMalware. You can download and install Zemana to search for and get rid of Sppextcomobjhook.dll from your PC system. When installed and updated, the malware remover will automatically scan and detect all threats present on the PC system.
Click the following link to download the latest version of Zemana for MS Windows. Save it on your Microsoft Windows desktop.
Zemana AntiMalware
164868 downloads
Author: Zemana Ltd
Category: Security tools
Update: July 16, 2019
When downloading is finished, close all programs and windows on your system. Open a directory in which you saved it. Double-click on the icon that’s named Zemana.AntiMalware.Setup like below.
When the install starts, you will see the “Setup wizard” that will help you set up Zemana Anti Malware on your PC system.
Once installation is finished, you will see window like below.
Now press the “Scan” button to begin checking your system for the Sppextcomobjhook.dll and other malware and PUPs. This process can take some time, so please be patient. While the Zemana Free program is checking, you may see number of objects it has identified as threat.
After Zemana AntiMalware (ZAM) has finished scanning, a list of all items found is created. In order to delete all threats, simply click “Next” button.
The Zemana AntiMalware (ZAM) will remove the Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus related files, folders and registry keys and move items to the program’s quarantine.
Use HitmanPro to delete Sppextcomobjhook.dll from the machine
All-in-all, HitmanPro is a fantastic utility to clean your system from any potential threats such as malware and PUPs. The Hitman Pro is portable program that meaning, you do not need to install it to run it. Hitman Pro is compatible with all versions of MS Windows OS from Microsoft Windows XP to Windows 10. Both 64-bit and 32-bit systems are supported.
Please go to the following link to download HitmanPro. Save it to your Desktop.
HitmanPro
12222 downloads
Author: Sophos
Category: Security tools
Update: June 28, 2018
After downloading is finished, open the file location. You will see an icon like below.
Double click the Hitman Pro desktop icon. Once the utility is started, you will see a screen as displayed in the following example.
Further, press “Next” button to perform a system scan with this utility for the Sppextcomobjhook.dll and other security threats. Depending on your system, the scan can take anywhere from a few minutes to close to an hour. Once the system scan is complete, you will be displayed the list of all detected threats on your computer as on the image below.
Make sure all threats have ‘checkmark’ and click “Next” button. It will show a dialog box, click the “Activate free license” button.
How to automatically get rid of Sppextcomobjhook.dll with MalwareBytes Anti-Malware
We recommend using the MalwareBytes Free. You can download and install MalwareBytes Free to find out and delete Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus from your PC system. When installed and updated, this free malicious software remover automatically scans for and removes all threats exist on the system.
- Installing the MalwareBytes Free is simple. First you’ll need to download MalwareBytes AntiMalware (MBAM) from the following link. Save it on your Microsoft Windows desktop or in any other place.
- At the download page, click on the Download button. Your internet browser will open the “Save as” prompt. Please save it onto your Windows desktop.
- When the downloading process is complete, please close all programs and open windows on your computer. Double-click on the icon that’s called mb3-setup.
- This will start the “Setup wizard” of MalwareBytes onto your machine. Follow the prompts and do not make any changes to default settings.
- When the Setup wizard has finished installing, the MalwareBytes AntiMalware will run and show the main window.
- Further, press the “Scan Now” button to detect Sppextcomobjhook.dll and other security threats. A system scan can take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on your PC system. While the MalwareBytes Anti-Malware (MBAM) tool is scanning, you can see number of objects it has identified as being infected by malicious software.
- When MalwareBytes Free has completed scanning your PC, MalwareBytes Anti Malware (MBAM) will show a list of found items.
- Once you have selected what you wish to remove from your PC click the “Quarantine Selected” button. When finished, you may be prompted to restart the computer.
- Close the AntiMalware and continue with the next step.
Video instruction, which reveals in detail the steps above.
How to stay safe online
It is important to run ad-blocker applications such as AdGuard to protect your PC system from harmful web pages. Most security experts says that it’s okay to block ads. You should do so just to stay safe! And, of course, the AdGuard can to block misleading and other intrusive web sites.
AdGuard can be downloaded from the following link. Save it to your Desktop so that you can access the file easily.
Adguard download
26854 downloads
Version: 6.4
Author: © Adguard
Category: Security tools
Update: November 15, 2018
After downloading it, double-click the downloaded file to run it. The “Setup Wizard” window will show up on the computer screen as on the image below.
Follow the prompts. AdGuard will then be installed and an icon will be placed on your desktop. A window will show up asking you to confirm that you want to see a quick tutorial as shown in the figure below.
Click “Skip” button to close the window and use the default settings, or click “Get Started” to see an quick guidance which will help you get to know AdGuard better.
Each time, when you run your personal computer, AdGuard will run automatically and block pop-up ads, as well as other malicious or misleading sites. For an overview of all the features of the program, or to change its settings you can simply double-click on the AdGuard icon, which may be found on your desktop.
To sum up
Now your personal computer should be free of the Sppextcomobjhook.dll . We suggest that you keep AdGuard (to help you stop unwanted ads and annoying harmful web sites) and Zemana Free (to periodically scan your system for new malicious software, hijackers and ad supported software). Make sure that you have all the Critical Updates recommended for Windows operating system. Without regular updates you WILL NOT be protected when new browser hijackers, malicious apps and ad supported software are released.
If you are still having problems while trying to remove Sppextcomobjhook.dll virus from your PC, then ask for help here.
Updated: April 25, 2024
2 min to read
Files
SppExtComObjHook.dll has gained notoriety for its association with various illegal software activation tools like KMSPico, AutoKMS, Re-Loader, and KMSAuto. These tools are often used for activating Microsoft Windows or Office products without proper licensing. The presence of this file on a computer typically indicates the use of such activation tools, often considered illegal and a potential gateway to malware.
Is It Safe to Run?
Running SppExtComObjHook.dll or having it on your system isn’t safe. Security software frequently flags this file as a threat, suggesting it might be involved in illicit activities or malware distribution. The file often infiltrates systems alongside the mentioned activation tools or through dubious means like spam email campaigns, untrustworthy software download sources, and fake software updating tools.
Can It Be a Virus or Malware?
Yes, SppExtComObjHook.dll can be a virus or malware. It’s commonly bundled with illegal activation tools that are notorious for distributing various forms of malware, including trojans, ransomware, and cryptominers. These malicious programs can lead to severe issues like data loss, privacy breaches, financial losses, and identity theft.
To address issues related to SppExtComObjHook.dll, follow these steps:
- Run Antivirus Scans: Use reputable antivirus software to scan your system. Tools like Malwarebytes and Kaspersky are effective in detecting and removing malware.
- Safe Mode: Boot your computer in Safe Mode to prevent the execution of malware during the startup process.
- Uninstall Suspicious Programs: Check your installed programs for anything related to the known activation tools or other suspicious applications and uninstall them.
- Clean System Registry: Sometimes, remnants of malware or suspicious files remain in the system registry. Use reliable registry cleaning tools to clean it up.
- Manual File Deletion: If you’re skilled in technology, locate the file manually in your system (usually in the System32 folder) and delete it. Be cautious, as deleting system files can be risky.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure your operating system and all installed software are up-to-date to avoid vulnerabilities.
- Avoid Pirated Software: Refrain from using illegal activation tools or pirated software to prevent such risks in the future.
For more detailed instructions and advice, visit the following links:
- Reddit discussion on SppExtComObjHook.dll
- Microsoft Community discussion on removing SppExtComObjHook.dll
Community discussions provide valuable insights from users who have encountered similar issues. For instance, on Reddit, users share experiences with the file being flagged by antivirus programs, while the Microsoft Community offers solutions from both users and experts. Websites like The Computer Noob and Tech Support All offer comprehensive guides on handling such files, including detailed steps for removal and protection.
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