Kaspersky TDSSKiller is a free, standalone rootkit-removal utility from Kaspersky Lab. Designed to run alongside your existing antivirus, it detects and eliminates hidden threats such as TDSS, SST, Pihar, ZeroAccess, Sinowal, Whistler, Phanta, Trup, Stoned, RLoader, Cmoser and Cidox—malware that conventional scanners often miss.
How to disinfect a system
- Download TDSSKiller.exe on the infected PC (Windows 8/7/Vista compatible).
- Launch the file—no installation required.
- Allow the tool to scan and disinfect; reboot if prompted.
Note: Works in normal mode, Safe Mode, or silently from the command line (run TDSSKiller.exe -h for all switches).
Why rootkits are dangerous
- Hide processes, folders, files and registry keys from Windows API.
- Install invisible drivers/services to maintain persistence.
- Intercept low-level system calls to evade detection.
TDSSKiller uncovers these stealth techniques and removes the malicious code, restoring Windows integrity in minutes.