This post covers a newly-discovered malware threat called PipeMagic, so if you’ve noticed it on your computer or suspect it may have infected your system, I strongly recommend that you stay on this page, where you’ll learn more about this malware and the methods to remove it
What Is PipeMagic?
My research on PipeMagic lead me to the conclusion that this malware belong to the Trojan Horse category. As such, we can expect PipeMagic to gain elevated privileges on the infected machine as soon as it enters it.
After that, it can run various harmful processes depending on what the hackers behind it seek to achieve. Some common uses of Trojans like PipeMagic are to exploit the systems resources for cryptocurrency mining, to steal sensitive data from the user, or to deliver additional malware programs into the system.
But those are only a few examples, and there’s a lot more that a Trojan can do. This type of malware like Raccoon, EternalCast, and Almoristics is especially versatile, so its use in each specific case could be different. But the key takeaway here is that you absolutely can’t allow this Trojan to remain in your system, which is why I’ve prepared a detailed guide to help you eliminate it.
PipeMagic Trojan Removal Guide
In most cases, rogue software like PipeMagic Trojan requires some digging through your system and hunting down its various components until the malware is removed. However, in rare cases, you may be able to get away with only completing a couple of simpler steps. That is what I suggest you try first and even if it doesn’t work, it will set the stage for the more advanced steps that follow.
Quick Steps to Remove PipeMagic
- 1.1Go to This PC > Downloads → sort by date → delete anything suspicious.
- 1.2Open Start Menu → Settings → Apps.
- 1.3Sort by date. Look for anything suspicious/linked to PipeMagic, click it → Uninstall.
- 1.4Look for the installation directory at
C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Local\Programs\
. If you find it, delete that folder.
Restart your PC. If PipeMagic is still present, proceed to the advanced steps below.
SUMMARY:
How to Fully Get Rid of PipeMagic
This is the full removal tutorial for the PipeMagic virus, which you should use in case running the program’s uninstaller didn’t do the job. Follow the steps carefully and don’t skip anything otherwise the malware might not get fully deleted and return the next time you boot up your PC.
To successfully remove this malware, you must first complete two preparatory steps:
1. Preparing for the PipeMagic Removal
- 1.2Install LockHunter. You will need it to get rid of stubborn PipeMagic files.
Video walkthrough for this step:
Remove PipeMagic Processes From the Task Manager
You must find all PipeMagic processes in the Task Manager to end them and delete their location folders. Note that the malware process(es) may have different names. Do look for anything labeled “PipeMagic” but also look for other strange names, especially if they are using lots of CPU and RAM.
2. How to Delete PipeMagic Processes in the Task Manager
- 2.1Press
Ctrl + Shift + Esc
(opens the Task Manager). Click More Details if it’s in compact mode. - 2.3If you spot a sketchy process, right-click it → Open file location → delete everything there.
If you get an error, ensure LockHunter is installed, then right-click the file/folder → “What’s locking this file/folder?” → Delete.
- 2.4Back in the Task Manager, note down the rogue process name, then end the process.
Video walkthrough for this step:
How to Delete Persistent Files with Lock Hunter
Delete PipeMagic Virus Files
There are almost certainly remaining PipeMagic files hidden in other parts of your system, so you’ll have to manually look for them and delete them. I will now give you the most usual locations where malware tends to create helper files, so check each one and delete anything suspicious, using LockHunter if needed.
3. How to Get Rid of PipeMagic Files
- 3.1Check the Startup folders:
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
C:\Users\*Your Username*\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
Delete anything suspicious; just don’t delete a file labelled desktop.ini. - 3.2Open
Program Files
andProgram Files (x86)
in yourC:
drive. Look for unfamiliar folders and delete them. - 3.3Three more locations to check:
C:\Users\%user%\AppData\Local\
C:\Users\%user%\AppData\Local\Programs\
C:\Users\%user%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\
Get Rid of PipeMagic Scheduled Tasks
It’s common for malware like PipeMagic to create scheduled tasks that let it automatically start its processes without any user input or even get reinstalled after the user removes it. You must make sure there are no rogue PipeMagic scheduled tasks in your system or else the malware might return even if you manage to eliminate it.
4. Eliminate PipeMagic Scheduled Tasks
- 4.2Click each task → Actions tab → look for tasks that run unfamiliar executables or scripts or connect to suspicious sites.
Note down the file path of such tasks and delete them.
- 4.3Go to the noted path and delete the related file(s).
Video walkthrough for this step:
Uninstall the PipeMagic Malware App Through the Windows Registry
The only thing left to do now is to perform a Registry cleanup. Be careful here. You don’t want to delete the wrong thing and end up causing more issues to your system. Instead, only delete items that you are certain are linked to the malware.
Here, I must once again remind you that you can choose to delete PipeMagic using SpyHunter 5 or another reputable removal software in case you aren’t sure you can manually perform the Registry cleanup.
If you are confident in your ability to safely clean the Registry on your own, this is what you must do:
5. Remove PipeMagic Through the Registry
- 5.1Type “regedit” in the Start Menu → Enter → Yes.
- 5.2Click Edit → Find, search for PipeMagic, delete what gets found. Repeat until all related items are removed.
- 5.3Search for the names of programs you uninstalled from Apps & Features and rogue processes you stopped in the Task Manager and delete their items too.
- 5.5Select each one, look for suspicious values in the right panel, and delete them. Do not delete the keys on the left.
Video walkthrough for this step:
Is PipeMagic a Virus?
Technically, PipeMagic isn’t a virus, but that doesn’t make it any less threatening. Unlike viruses, Trojans don’t self-replicate or infect other files directly. Instead, they trick users into installing them by posing as something safe or useful.
PipeMagic is a perfect example – it disguises itself as everyday software, often bundled with tools, updates, or browser extensions that seem legitimate. The line separating a virus from a Trojan is mostly academic; both aim to compromise your system.
What sets Trojans apart is their reliance on user interaction and deception rather than automated spread. PipeMagic slips past suspicion by mimicking software people commonly download or trust.
That’s why Trojans like PipeMagic are among the most dangerous types of malware in circulation. They rely less on exploiting system vulnerabilities and more on exploiting human ones. Once installed, they don’t announce their presence – they operate quietly, often going unnoticed for long periods.
Though classified differently from traditional viruses, the risk they pose is equal, sometimes greater. Whether it’s causing damage directly or opening the door for further threats, PipeMagic is not something you can afford to ignore. Labels aside, the harm it can cause and the stealthy way it enters make PipeMagic an extremely serious cybersecurity threat.
How Dangerous Is PipeMagic?
PipeMagic doesn’t just exist on your system – it embeds itself deeply. Once it secures administrative privileges, the door opens for it to do nearly anything. It can quietly run processes in the background, sometimes under names that look perfectly legitimate. You may not even notice until performance begins to lag.
In some cases, PipeMagic uses your CPU and memory to mine cryptocurrency, consuming power and potentially damaging your hardware over time. It goes further than just passive use—it actively modifies system components. It alters registry values, changes startup behavior, and plants scheduled tasks so it can activate automatically.
Many versions also scatter helper files across your drive, making removal harder. But the real danger is how PipeMagic invites more trouble. It might deactivate your antivirus tools or change browser settings to redirect you to phishing sites.
Once that’s done, you’re vulnerable to additional malware, data theft, and constant surveillance. Even if PipeMagic appears inactive, its very presence signals serious compromise. It’s not just one malicious tool – it’s an access point for many.
A Trojan like PipeMagic turns your machine into a weakened target. And with enough time, the infection can escalate, turning from nuisance to full-scale breach with long-lasting consequences.
How to Protect Against PipeMagic
Defending against PipeMagic starts with simple but essential security habits. Avoid unverified websites, don’t skip updates, and keep antivirus protection running at all times. But don’t stop there – PipeMagic often hides in files people trust, like open-source mods or game emulators.
Even useful tools can carry hidden Trojans if downloaded from the wrong place. Always choose custom installation and carefully read each screen to catch bundled extras. Quick installs are risky.
To further protect your system, install a reliable ad blocker. Malicious ads or deceptive download links are common Trojan delivery methods, and blocking them closes that door. Browsers can also help. Enable enhanced security settings in your browser to screen risky files and alert you to suspicious behavior.
Another smart adjustment is requiring confirmation for every file download—this simple setting gives you an extra second to recognize something off. Layering these defenses makes you much harder to target.
Trojans like PipeMagic count on complacency, predictable habits, and blind trust in what looks familiar. Don’t give them that opportunity. With minimal effort, you can interrupt their path in. Preventing infection is easier and safer than trying to clean up afterward. Awareness, caution, and a few smart settings go a long way.