SYSWIN.EXE
SYSWIN.EXE
It seems unusual for your .exe files to read zero bytes. The program you mentioned, syswin.exe, might be interfering or causing a file corruption. Try removing it and see if your files load properly. If the issue persists, check for malware or system updates that could affect file reading.
Syswin appears to be a combination of malware, functioning as both a Trojan and a virus in one package. To effectively eliminate it, begin with MalwareBytes; however, I strongly advise formatting and reinstalling Windows, as this is the best chance to recover any lost executable files. Personal data recovery is unlikely if the virus has destroyed backups. This isn't the solution you were expecting, but it's the most viable path forward.
I located the file quickly. Yes, combating viruses often involves resetting drives and reinstalling Windows, but is that truly effective? I’m curious—do you really spend little time on your computers? Just a few programs, a couple of games, and Windows running normally. Most users have many applications, tools, and settings that need activation or configuration. Sometimes restoring everything can take days or even weeks (I still recover old Windows backups to find missing settings for rarely used programs or forgotten files). Why would someone choose to reinstall Windows as a solution? There’s a big difference between knowing something and actually experiencing it. Would it help to hear your perspective on why you strongly suggest this method, and do you understand how the virus operates so we can address it properly?
I suggest you reinstall Windows to deal with any virus. This is just my opinion—I'm a bit anxious about missing anything. If there were a way to save a known good backup, it would make the process much easier and get you back up quickly. Wouldn't that be ideal? I usually don’t encounter viruses often enough to worry about it, but I still think Commonsense.exe is a strong online protection. Lastly, syswin is a destructive virus, meaning it has already damaged his Windows setup. How would you expect him to recover without a full reinstall?
Really? You don't know how to do it? I made that backups for years using Macrium Reflect (and second os for be sure that making backup/image will not be interfere with working system). But mostly I don't need it, I made it just in case (I used it few times, but mostly when I change HDD/SSD and just once for revert some changes). IMO if you strongly recommend to reinstall system in case of any virus, then probably is better if you don't give advices for users who want solutions to their problems. They may not know that you're paranoid so they may think that reinstalling windows is method to fighting viruses. If I ask someone how to remove virus, I expect guide how to remove virus.
He wasn't just seeking ways to eliminate the virus; he also wanted guidance on restoring his 0 byte executable files. It's surprising you haven't provided any recommendations, instead criticizing my advice without offering your own solutions. Even after mentioning he won't be able to fully remove the virus, the advice you shared doesn't address the missing executables. You're right to point out that without proper steps, those files remain inaccessible. And yes, you're correct—giving advice isn't the right approach here.
It's not accurate (I discovered a detailed explanation online), but we should ignore it. He likely wrote this and overlooked it, leaving us to waste more time debating. The reality is I didn't catch the joke.