Complete PyteHole Ransomware Removal Guide (Detailed Instructions)

The PyTeHole ransomware is a new malware threat which is still under development, it can be easily deleted by following our removal guide.

PyteHole Ransomware Description

The PyteHole ransomware is a newly discovered virus which is currently under active development. The identity of the hacker behind it is not known at this moment however we suspect it to be a beginner programmer. It is also known under the aliases pyte-hole or pyteHole.

The malware features a basic encryption engine at this moment. The security analysts were not able to extract the ransomware note which is probably based on an existing template. Like other similar threats it uses a predefined file type extensions of target data. Usually this includes files such as: documents, photos, music, archives, backups, databases and etc. All affected data receive the .adr extension.

At this point the virus seems like in early testing status. It is very likely that the criminals behind it are going to add new modules and functionality to extend it further.

PyteHole Ransomware Distribution

The samples associated with the PyteHole ransomware are very limited in number. This does not give a clear indication of the primary infection methods employed by the virus. We suspect that the hackers are going to use tactics that are used to infect a large amount of users. Possible methods include the following:

• Email Spam Campaigns – The hacker collective behind the PyteHole ransomware can distribute the binary as attachments in phishing campaigns. It can also be linked in infected documents that pose as files of user interest – usually invoices, letters and etc. When the users opens them a prompt notification appears. It requests the execution of a built-in macros, this action results in the virus delivery.
• Infected Installers – The PyteHole ransomware can be bundled with software installers of popular legitimate applications, games, patches, utilities and etc. Depending on the installer customization method the targets in some cases can exclude the installation of the malware code by unticking certain check boxes.
• Hacker-Controlled Sites – The binary file and/or infected installers can be often be found on hacker-controlled or hacked download sites and portals. Some of them may pose as legitimate sources and may even fake the company details.
• P2P Networks – P2P networks that distribute illegal or pirate content such as BitTorrent trackers are a very popular place for spreading malware like the PyteHole ransomware.
• Browser Hijackers – Malicious extensions, also known as browser hijackers, can be used to deliver payloads such as this ransomware.
• Hacker Attacks – Direct hacker intrusion attempts can be used to infect targets with the PyteHole ransowmare. Usually automated vulnerability testing frameworks are used.

Summary of the PyteHole Ransomware

PyteHole Ransomware Removal

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 PyteHole 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 PyteHole Files

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

How To Restore PyteHole Files

1) Use present backups

2) Use professional data recovery software
– Stellar Phoenix Data Recovery – a specialist tool that can restore partitions, data, documents, photos, and 300 more file types lost during various types of incidents and corruption.

3) Using System Restore Point
– Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

4) 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

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