What is SystemkService.exe and how to remove it?

SystemkService.exe - by Aztec Media Inc.

What is SystemkService.exe?

SystemkService.exe is a part of Systemk Service application which is detected by many anti-virus engines either as a browser hijacker or a Trojan horse, for example Trojan.Semnager, Toolbar.SearchSuite, Adware.SearchSuite.A. This browser hijacker modifies your web browser and Windows registry. Usually, it redirects users to default-search.net website. It also creates a Windows service named Systemk Service. This service is configured to run automatically when Windows starts. It has been found to be bundled with 3rd party software, mostly adware and in some cases even spyware. It has a valid digital signature which was issued to Aztec Media Inc. Please note that a valid digital signature doesn't guarantee that the application is not malicious or potentially unwanted. SystemkService.exe is a great example how an application can get one and still be a part of malicious program. This application was mainly designed to protect hijacked browser settings making automatic detection and removal as difficult as possible. It constantly runs in the background, checks for updates, uses system resources. It may also make some websites load slower than usual. Without a doubt, this application is not essential for Windows and may cause problems. I recommend you to remove SystemkService.exe and associated malware from your computer. Run a full system scan with recommend anti-malware program to detect and remove this infection.

File name: SystemkService.exe
Publisher: Aztec Media Inc.
File Location Windows XP: C:\Program Files\Settings Manager\systemk\SystemkService.exe
File Location Windows 7: C:\Program Files (x86)\Settings Manager\systemk\SystemkService.exe
Startup file: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run → SystemkService.exe