HollyCrypt Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

HollyCrypt ransomware is a new variant of the open-source HiddenTear malware project, learn more about this threat and view the removal instructions in our article below.

HollyCrypt Ransomware Description

Hollycrypt ransomware is a new malware threat that is an offspring of the popular open-source code of HiddenTear. This malware family has grown to a few dangerous strains that have already plagued thousands of computer owners, both big businesses and individual users. Unfortunately the criminal developers have not stopped creating new strains of the code and the Hollycrypt ransomware is the latest proof of that.

It uses the same tactic as its parent – it targets specific user file extensions and encrypts them with a strong cipher. The affected files are renamed with the .HollyCrypt extension. At this moment we do not have the complete list of target user extensions however we suspect that the most popular data files are the priority – audio and video files, documents and images. Here is the contents of the ransomware note:

Your Files has been encrypted with Hollycrypt
Send me some bitcoins or Vodka , Then I will email with an antidote
(>,<) , Email:[email protected].

Like other popular ransomware this one does not specify a fixed sum for providing the decryption key.

HollyCrypt Ransomware Distribution

The HollyCrypt ransomware is distributed mainly through email spam messages and malware programs. In many cases the virus is spread as fake documents bearing popular file types (PDF and Microsoft Word documents).

Some of the malware samples have also been spotted in adware-infected software installers downloaded from untrusted download sites and P2P networks like BitTorrent.

HollyCrypt Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete HollyCrypt completely with a few mouse clicks.

STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.

1) Hit WIN Key + R

2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK

Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”

STEP II: Show Hidden Files

1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
– Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option

3) Windows 8/ 10

– Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option



4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button

STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes

1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it

STEP IV: Remove Completely HollyCrypt Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

STEP V: Repair Windows Registry

1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys

Further help for Windows Registry repair

STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files

1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
– Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar



– Hit the “Restore” button

3) Using System Restore Point

– Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures

1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter