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Dealing with malicious files like SppExtComObjHook.dll can be a real headache, especially when it disrupts your system’s performance and security. Let’s dive into some effective methods to remove this pesky file and get your Windows system back on track.
What does SppExtComObjHook.dll do?
This DLL file is a part of AutoKMS and it’s used to activate Windows without a license. The file could be potentially malicious, so it’s best to remove it.
How can I remove SppExtComObjHook.dll?
1. Rename the file or delete it
- Open File Explorer, click View and check File name extensions.
- Find SppExtComObjHook.dll, it should be in
C:\Windows\System32 - Rename the file and change the extension of SppExtComObjHook.dll to .old (e.g., SppExtComObjHook.old).
By doing this, the dll file won’t be able to run anymore. Some users are suggesting deleting this file, so you might want to try that as well.
2. Scan your PC
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings, then go to Privacy & security and select Windows Security.
- Click Open Windows Security and look for any issues reported under Virus & threat protection.
- Click Manage settings and ensure Real-time protection is turned on.
- Click Quick scan to let Windows Defender scan your system for any remaining threats.
Of course, you can use any other antivirus software to scan your PC and remove this file.
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Using these solutions, you can effectively detect and remove SppExtComObjHook.dll from your system, ensuring it is clean and secure.
To learn more, we have a guide on how to remove AutoKMS.exe from your PC, so don’t miss it. We also have a new guide on fusion.dll, so don’t miss it.
Speaking of other DLLs, we have a guide on how to remove 7-zip.dll as well as a great article on how to remove gcapi.dll so you might want to check them as well.
Our latest guide covers OCComSDK.dll file, and since it’s likely malicious, we advise you to check our removal guide for more information. We also have a guide on hvsigpext.dll that you might be interested in.
Milan Stanojevic
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He’s a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology.
Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.
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.
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.
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).
Description
SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL is a dynamic link library (DLL) file that is part of the Windows operating system. It is associated with the Software Protection Platform (SPP) and is responsible for providing various functionalities related to software licensing and activation.
This DLL plays a crucial role in managing the software licensing and activation process on a Windows operating system. It contains a set of functions, routines, and resources that enable proper execution and functioning of the Software Protection Platform, which is responsible for validating software licenses, activating products, and enforcing anti-piracy measures.
The SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL file is commonly required by various software applications and services that rely on the Software Protection Platform for licensing and activation. It ensures that the necessary components for software licensing are present and functional on the system.
It is important to note that modifying or tampering with the SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL file can have serious consequences and may result in software license violations or activation issues. Users should not attempt to modify or replace this file unless it is done through authorized and legitimate means.
Purpose and Functionality
SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL serves as a crucial component of the Software Protection Platform and provides several important functionalities, including:
- License Validation: The DLL is responsible for verifying the validity and authenticity of software licenses, ensuring that only genuine and authorized copies of software are used.
- Product Activation: SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL facilitates the activation process for software products, allowing users to formally register and activate their licensed software.
- Anti-Piracy Measures: The DLL includes mechanisms to detect and prevent software piracy, protecting the interests of software developers and ensuring fair usage of their products.
Common Use Cases
SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL is utilized by various software applications and services that rely on the Software Protection Platform for licensing and activation. Some common use cases include:
- Operating System Activation: The DLL is involved in the activation process of the Windows operating system itself, ensuring that only genuine copies are activated and used.
- Software Licensing: Many software applications integrate with the Software Protection Platform to enforce licensing restrictions and prevent unauthorized usage.
- Anti-Piracy Measures: SPPEXTCOMOBJHOOK.DLL is instrumental in detecting and preventing software piracy, safeguarding the interests of software developers and supporting a fair software ecosystem.
Errors related to sppextcomobjhook.dll
SppExtComObjHook.dll-related errors and issues can occur when there are problems with the Windows Software Protection Platform service or when the DLL itself becomes corrupted or missing. Here are some common errors and issues associated with SppExtComObjHook.dll:
DLL Not Found or Missing Error
This error occurs when the system or an application is unable to locate the SppExtComObjHook.dll file. It can happen if the DLL is accidentally deleted, moved, or not properly registered with the Windows Software Protection Platform service.
Application Startup Error
Some applications that rely on the functionality provided by SppExtComObjHook.dll may fail to start or launch due to a missing or incompatible DLL. This is often accompanied by an error message indicating that the DLL is either missing or not found.
Application Crashes
If SppExtComObjHook.dll is corrupted or incompatible with the application’s version of the Windows Software Protection Platform service, the application might crash during runtime.
DLL Initialization Error
This type of error occurs when the DLL fails to initialize properly when an application is launched. It can result from issues such as incorrect registration, conflicts with other software, or corrupted system files.
Compatibility Issues
SppExtComObjHook.dll is designed to work with specific versions of the Windows Software Protection Platform service. Using an incompatible version of the DLL can cause errors and issues.
Operating System Compatibility
Some versions of SppExtComObjHook.dll might be designed for specific operating systems. Using a version that is not compatible with the user’s operating system can lead to errors.
Corruption due to Malware or System Issues
Malware infections, hardware failures, or other system issues can potentially corrupt DLL files like SppExtComObjHook.dll, leading to various errors when trying to run applications.
Windows Software Protection Platform Issues
Problems with the Windows Software Protection Platform service, such as incorrect configuration or failure to start, can result in errors related to SppExtComObjHook.dll.
Incorrect File Versions
If a user has manually replaced or altered the SppExtComObjHook.dll file with an incorrect version, it can cause errors when applications attempt to use the DLL.
To resolve these errors and issues, users can try the following steps:
- Run the System File Checker (sfc /scannow) to check and repair corrupted system files.
- Perform a malware scan and remove any infections.
- Ensure that the Windows Software Protection Platform service is running correctly.
- If possible, try reinstalling the specific application that is encountering the DLL error.
- If all else fails, seeking assistance from technical support or forums related to the specific application or DLL issue might be necessary for a proper resolution.