Altrousik is yet another iteration of a common type of malware that exploits system resources for cryptocurrency mining. Other similar threats we’ve covered in the past are Altrsik and Altruistics.
This rogue software installs on the computer through misleading ads and file bundles but it does so in a way that makes it difficult to notice. Only once the system starts lagging due to excessive CPU and/or RAM usage does the user finally notice that something’s not quite right with their system. Furthermore, in some cases, Altrousik might only run its processes when the computer isn’t being actively used, so that it stays unnoticed for longer.
OFFERWhatever the situation, since you are already here, I assume that you’ve noticed Altrousik in your system and are now looking for an effective way to get rid of it. I can help you with that in two ways – a detailed manual removal guide and a powerful automatic anti-malware tool, both of which you can find below.
Altrousik Removal Guide
Some of you might be experienced enough to complete the required Altrousik removal steps without the need for detailed guidance. For this reason, I’ll first provide an overview of the removal process in case you want to get started and don’t need further instructions:
- Install LockHunter and enable “Show hidden files“.
- Uninstall suspicious applications from Apps and Features.
- End malicious processes in Task Manager.
- Delete associated malware files from C:\Program Files, C:\Program Files (x86), and various C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\ subfolders.
- Remove suspicious Task Scheduler entries.
- Clean malware entries from Registry.
Of course, if you need help with some or all of these steps, a more detailed explanation of each one is available below.
SUMMARY:
| Name | Altrousik |
| Type | Trojan |
| Danger Level | High (Trojans are often used as a backdoor for Ransomware) |
| Detection Tool |
READ BEFORE PROCEEDING!
Removing Altrousik manually isn’t a quick task. It can take over an hour and calls for some technical know-how. If you’re short on time or don’t feel confident tackling the steps, there’s an easier way. A professional removal tool like SpyHunter 5 is designed for situations like this. It handles threats like Altrousik efficiently and can get the job done in minutes. You’ll find SpyHunter 5 available right here on this page if you want to give it a shot.
How to Remove the Altrousik Virus
The successful removal of the Altrousik malware requires some preparation. In this case, I recommend performing the following two actions before you move on to the actual removal of the virus:
The first thing to do is to install a small and totally free tool called LockHunter.
One thing about Altrousik—it doesn’t give up its files easily. If you’ve ever tried to delete a file and got an error saying it’s “in use,” you already know the frustration. That’s where LockHunter comes in. It tells you exactly which processes hold onto a file and lets you delete them anyway.
Without LockHunter, you’re stuck. Altrousik’s files are designed to fight back, and trust me, wrestle with them manually isn’t worth the headache. Download LockHunter and keep it handy before moving forward.
Next, you must make sure that any hidden files in your system are visible to you
The next step is to expose Altrousik’s hiding spots. This malware tucks itself away in directories you can’t see by default. To change that, open your Start Menu, search for “Folder Options,” and adjust the settings under the “View” tab to show hidden files and folders.
If you skip this step, it’s like you try to find a thief who’s out in plain sight—you won’t see them until it’s too late. Once those hidden files are visible, you’re ready to start the hunt.
With LockHunter installed and hidden files and folders revealed, you are now ready to tackle Altrousik malware.
Video walkthrough for this step:
Uninstall the Altrousik Virus App
Rogue software like Altrousik wil often install in the system as actual programs/apps that can be seen in your list of installed programs. Going there and attempting to uninstall the malware will rarely take care of the entire thing but it’s an important first step that will help with the rest of the process.
- Search for “Apps & Features” in your Start Menu and sort the list by installation date.
- Look for programs added around the time you first noticed something was off.
- If Altrousik appears, uninstall it immediately.
- Don’t stop there, though. Take note of any other suspicious programs you find—you might need those names later.
- Then remember to also uninstall any other sketchy entries to make sure your list of installed programs is clean.
Be careful during the uninstallation. The uninstall wizards of rogue programs will often have misleading wording in order to get you to click on the wrong option and either allow the program to stay in your system or approve the installation of some other malware app.
Video walkthrough for this step:
Get Rid of Altrousik in the Task Manager
The Altrousik process(es) is what’s slowing down your system by draining its resources. If you identify and stop that process, the malware will no longer be active and you’ll be able to hunt down and delete its remaining data. Here’s what you’ve got to do:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Sort processes by CPU or memory usage. Malware loves to hog resources, so unusual spikes are a dead giveaway.
- Look for Altrousik or any other odd-looking processes that are using up a suspiciously large amount of either resource.
- When you find something questionable, right-click it and select “Open File Location.”
- Without closing the folder you just opened, quickly return to the Task Manager, click the rogue process, and click End Task.
- Then return to the folder and try to delete its contents.
- Some files won’t go quietly. That’s where LockHunter earns its keep. If you’ve already installed it, right-click the stubborn file/folder, click the “What’s locking it?” option, and click Delete.
This step takes time, but it’s essential to disrupt the malware’s operations.
Video walkthrough for this step:
How to Delete Persistent Files with Lock Hunter
Delete Altrousik Virus Files
Once you disrupt the active processes, the next step is to seek out and eliminate dormant files linked to Altrousik. I’ll admit, this part feels a bit like you try to find a needle in a haystack, but patience pays off. Take your time, search carefully the locations I’ve listed below, and delete from them anything that looks like it could be from the malware:
Start with your system’s Startup folders. Check both C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup and C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup.
Delete anything that looks out of place, but leave standard files like desktop.ini alone.
Next, comb through C:\Program Files and C:\Program Files (x86). Look for folders named Altrousik or anything else suspicious. Delete them.
Two other locations you must explore are:
- C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Programs
- C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
Again, check them for traces of Altrousik and delete what you may find.
Finally, open the temporary files folder by typing “%TEMP%” into your Start Menu search bar.
Wipe everything inside. Temporary files are like breadcrumbs for malware, and clear them to cut off one more path back.
Get Rid of Altrousik Malware Tasks
A very important, yet often overlooked part of the removal process of any malware is checking the Task Scheduler. If Altrousik has created its own custom tasks there, you’ve got to hunt them down and delete them, or else the malware might return.
Search for “Task Scheduler” in your Start Menu. Once inside, review the Task Scheduler Library.
Look for tasks with unfamiliar names or strange file paths in the Actions tab. If you find one that points to locations like AppData or a random .exe file, delete it.
Don’t second-guess yourself here. Be overly cautious. That might save you from months of frustration down the line.
Video walkthrough for this step:
Delete the Altrousik Virus Through the Registry
The final step is to check the Registry for Altrousik items. It’s pretty much guaranteed that there’s something linked to the virus in there, but you may need to spend some time looking for it. Here’s exactly what to do:
Open the Registry Editor by searching for it in your Start Menu (open it with admin rights).
Use the search function (Edit > Find) to look for entries labeled “Altrousik.” Delete anything you find. Run the search again to catch any remnants.
While you’re at it, check for registry keys related to any other suspicious programs you uninstalled earlier.
Then manually explore the following Registry directories:
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunHKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnceHKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunHKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnceHKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer\RunHKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer\RunHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunServicesHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunServicesOnceHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce\SetupHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services
Open each one, check its values to the right, and if you notice anything sketchy there, delete it, but don’t delete the key itself (left panel).
This part might feel tedious, but it’s the last nail in the coffin for Altrousik. Once the registry is clean, you’re almost in the clear.
Video walkthrough for this step:
Finalize the Altrousik Removal Process
If you want to be absolutely sure you’ve wiped out every last trace of Altrousik, there’s one more thing you should do. Think of this as the final sweep to catch any leftovers you might have missed. Now, let’s be clear—this won’t stop the service from restoring files on its own if you haven’t already done the earlier steps. But it will help clean up any remnants hanging around.
First, hit the Win key and type cmd. When you see the Command Prompt icon pop up, right-click it and select Run as administrator.
Once you’re in the command prompt, type this exactly:sc delete altrousik
Then press Enter to run the command.
If everything goes as planned, you’ll see a confirmation letting you know it found and deleted the service. If it doesn’t find anything, that’s okay too—it just means you’ve already done a thorough job.
Finally, restart your computer to apply all the changes. This step ensures that nothing remains lurking in memory. Afterward, monitor your system for a few days. If you notice issues that linger, consider a professional tool like SpyHunter 5 to double-check your work.
Tips to Prevent Future Infections
Deal with Altrousik once and you’ll never want to do it again. Prevent future infections to save yourself this headache. Install reliable antivirus software with real-time protection. Stay cautious about files you download or links you click from unverified sources.
Keep your operating system updated to close security loopholes. Back up your important files regularly. Think of backups as a safety net—it’s better to have them and not need them than the other way around.
Conclusion
The Altrousik virus requires methodical effort to remove. Each step builds on the last, and if you skip any part, you leave yourself vulnerable to reinfection. For those who prefer a simpler solution, tools like SpyHunter 5 are excellent alternatives.
Prevention, though, is the real game-changer. Protect your system, remain vigilant, and make smart choices online. That way, you’ll spend more time as you enjoy your computer and less time as you fight malware.
Leave a Comment