How to remove “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart”

If your computer is often interrupted by a blue screen that says “your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart” then you have contracted a malicious program. The “your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart” message is a fake Windows notification used to advertise a rogue tech-support company that wants scam you in order to turn you into a customer.

your PC ran into a problem

The tech-support scam basically utilizes a fake Windows blue screen. The blue screen claims that “your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart.” The blue screen will also contain a tech-support number such as 1-888-479-3649. The screen will say that if you would like to resolve the issue over the phone you can call the tech-support number. If you call the rogue tech-support number they will attempt to gain a remote connection to your computer.

Here’s an example of the message displayed on the fake blue screen:

:(
Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart. We're just collecting some error info, and then we'll restart for you. (0% complete)

If you'd like to know more, you can search online later for this error: HAL_INITIALIZATION_FAILED
if you'd like to resolve this issue over the phone you can call our support at 1-888-479-3649

Tech-support businesses that utilize this misleading method to gain customers are usually very untrustworthy and may infect your computer with malware,  hold your files for ransom, and scare you into purchasing a subscription to their tech-support services. You should never call the tech-support company associated with the “your PC ran into a problem” blue screen.

The “your PC ran into a problem” blue screen will usually appear at random times. It may seem like you cannot get rid of the fake Windows blue screen, but you actually can. On the top left corner will be a highlighted area. If you are able to click around in this area you can obtain access back to your computer. In order to remove the “your PC ran into a problem” blue screen for good you will need to eradicate the cooperating files and programs that are used to display the fake Windows message.

To make matter worse the malicious files and programs used to display the fake your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart message usually bundle with other unwanted programs and malware. You may experience other issues with your computer and may lose complete control of your computer system.

Other issues include:

  • Pop-up advertisements in your browser
  • Advertisements on Windows desktop
  • Fake Windows alerts (including a fake software release pack notification)
  • Modified browser settings that result in browser redirections to commercial content
  • Restricted access to your computer
  • Decreased computer functionality and performance
  • Decrease internet connectivity
  • Black-screen every time you log into Windows

In order to remove all threats from your computer it is recommend to scan your system using reputable tools that can detect and remove the malicious files, as well as repair corrupted settings to your computer and affected web browsers. The instructions on this webpage show you how to remove “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart” messages, fake Windows alerts, malware, and other threats from your computer.

How to remove “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart”

  1. Scan your computer for malware with Malwarebytes
  2. Scan your computer a second time with HitmanPro
  3. Cleanup and repair settings with CCleaner

Scan your computer for malware with Malwarebytes

1. Download and Install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software.

2. Open Malwarebytes and click the Scan Now button or go to the Scan tab and click the Start Scan button.

3. When the Malwarebytes scan is complete click the Remove Selected button.

4. To finish the Malwarebytes scan and remove detected threats click the Finish button and restart your computer if promoted to do so.

Scan your computer a second time with HitmanPro

1. Download and Install HitmanPro by Surfright.

2. Open HitmanPro and click Next to start scanning your computer. *If you are using the free version you may chose to create a copy or perform a one-time scan.

3. When the HitmanPro scan is complete click the Next button.

4. To activate the free version of HitmanPro: enter your email address twice and click the Activate button.

5. Click the Reboot button.

Cleanup and repair settings with CCleaner

1. Download and Install CCleaner by Piriform.

2. Open CCleaner and go to the main Cleaner screen. Click the Analyze button. When the process is complete, click the Run Cleaner button on the bottom right of the program interface.

3. Go to Tools > Startup and search for suspicious entries in each tab starting from Windows all the way to Content Menu. If you find anything suspicious click it and click the Delete button to remove it.

4. Go to the Registry window and click the Scan for Issues button. When the scan is complete click the Fix selected issues… button and click Fix All Selected Issues.

Sean Doyle

Sean is a distinguished tech author and entrepreneur with over 20 years of extensive experience in cybersecurity, privacy, malware, Google Analytics, online marketing, and various other tech domains. His expertise and contributions to the industry have been recognized in numerous esteemed publications. Sean is widely acclaimed for his sharp intellect and innovative insights, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the tech community. His work not only advances the field but also helps businesses and individuals navigate the complexities of the digital world.

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