Virus Deletes Start Menu – Icons Missing
Problem:
A virus attack has hidden all of the files on your hard drive and removed all of the programs from your start menu.
Solution:
Unhide your files (follow the link).
Check your temp folder for the contents of your start menu as it was likely moved there.
Below are the folders found under %Temp%smtmp and what locations the shortcuts should normally reside in based on the version of Windows you are using.
Windows XP: C:Documents and SettingsAll UsersStart Menu
Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:ProgramDataMicrosoftWindowsStart Menu
%Temp%smtmp2:
Windows XP: C:Documents and Settings<your login name here>Application DataMicrosoftInternet ExplorerQuick Launch
Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:Users<your login name here>AppDataRoamingMicrosoftInternet ExplorerQuick Launch
%Temp%smtmp3:
Windows XP: Does not exist in XP. Therefore do not be concerned if %Temp%smtmp3 does not exist on Windows XP.
Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:Users<your login name here>AppDataRoamingMicrosoftInternet ExplorerQuick LaunchUser PinnedTaskBar
%Temp%smtmp4:
Windows XP: C:Documents and SettingsAll UsersDesktop
Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:UsersPublicDesktop