How to remove MindLost ransomware

Authors of the MindLost malware asks to pay the ransom using a credit card

MindLost is a file-encrypting virus that is also known under the name Paggalangrypt. The virus seems to target developers, but not a regular home computer users. However, the virus does not seem like a huge threat even though it appends .enc file extension to targeted data.

Researchers have found a few samples of MindLost ransomware. However, it seems that the virus is still in development because it does not operate properly. Though, it might be spread via malicious spam emails or other traditional distribution methods.

Once on the affected device, MindLost virus targets only a small amount of files. What is interesting, it does not aim at Microsoft Office files like the majority of crypto-viruses do. Malware encrypts files in the C:\\Users directory which have these extensions:

• .c
• .jpg
• .mp3
• .mp4
• .pdf
• .png
• .py
• .txt

During data encryption, MindLost ransomware appends .enc file extension. Furthermore, it downloads the image and sets it as computer’s background. The new wallpaper gives victim instructions how to get back access to the files.

Developers of MindLost ask to visit a payments website at http://mindlost.azurewebsites[.]net and pay $200 for data recovery. In the payment website, they will need to pay computer’s unique ID which is written in the ID.txt file dropped on the Desktop.

However, the payment website is quite unique and unusual. Typically, victims are asked to pay the ransom in Bitcoins.^[1] However, this time criminals simplified the task and ask to make a transaction using credit or debit card. It means victims have to enter their credit card’s details into the payment website which is extremely dangerous.

Another interesting thing is that author of the MindLost ransomware also offers to buy an “insurance” for $50. It means that criminals will give you protection from the cyber attacks in the future. Indeed, the same strategy was used by Spora ransomware virus. However, security specialists do not think that such immunity exists.

Additionally, victims can contact criminals via MindLostHelp@gmail.com email address in order to get some help. Though, such activities are not recommended. If you get infected, you should remove MindLost virus immediately.

Considering paying the ransom and letting criminals know your credit card information, is not a good idea. Researchers assume that malware might be created for tricking users into revealing their credit card information^[2] in order to use this data in the future. Hence, paying the ransom might not lead to one-time data loss, but countless unknown transactions might be made without your knowledge too.

Hence, after the attack, you should focus on MindLost removal in order to avoid money loss and clean your computer from malicious applications that disturb computer’s performance. We recommend FortectIntego for this task.

Possible ransomware distribution methods

The file-encrypting virus has not launched a massive distribution campaign. However, it might spread using traditional methods, such as:

• malicious spam email attachments;
• malvertising;
• bogus software updates and downloads;
• exploit kits.

Hence, the research team from viruset.no^[3] reminds that installing only reputable antivirus is not enough to avoid a cyber attack. Above-mentioned methods usually allow bypassing antivirus detection. For this reason, you have to be careful with the content you click, open or download.

Delete MindLost virus from the system entirely

MindLost removal should be completed just like any other file-encrypting virus. It means that you need to scan the system with malware removal software. Automatic elimination allows removing all malicious components from the system safely.

If you cannot remove MindLost with FortectIntego, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes or your chosen security software, you should check the guide below. Sometimes malware blocks security programs to protect itself. However, below you will find an explanation how to disable the virus.