MindSystem is a data locker ransomware created for educational purposes which do not restrict its usage by malicious intenders. It has all ransomware functionalities that allow it to penetrate the system, modify various Windows settings and encrypt valuable data with the help of AES-256 cipher algorithm. All corrupted files receive the file extension .mind and remain unusable as long as they are encrypted. Then it drops a ransom note that appears automatically on the infected PC screen. At this point, it has warning function not extortion function, and data decryption is possible by opening a file created by the ransomware.
This article aims to help you with the removal of all MindSystem ransomware files installed on the PC. If by accident .mind files remain encrypted after using the decryption file, the instructions below provide alternative data recovery approaches that are considered to be efficient.
Threat Summary
| Name | MindSystem |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and shows a ransom note afterward. |
| Symptoms | This ransomware virus will encrypt your files and place the .mind extension on each one of them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss MindSystem. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
Distribution of MinSystem Ransomware
If the MindSystem payload gets into hackers’ hands, they are likely to use standard ways for its distribution. Most often the ransomware arrives in a spam email that has an attachment. The attachment pretends to be an important document as an invoice or a message from courier so it can mislead the user to interact with the file. However, the file contains malicious code that can infect the PC with MindSystem ransomware once it is opened by the user. Most ransomware distribution campaigns rely on Microsoft Word documents that have embedded ransomware payloads.
Corrupted links may also be used for ransomware distribution. Once hackers inject the malicious code in a website, they can again present it in a spam email or send it as a personal message on some social media networks like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, etc. Even popular websites may be mirrored and used as a mean of ransomware distribution.
MindSystem Ransomware Attack in Detail
The ransomware is currently associated with a file called MindSystemNotRansomWare.exe that triggers the attack and controls all following system modifications. We remind that at this point MindSystem ransomware is supposed to be used only for educational purposes. However, its code can be leaked or released in dark net marketplaces. Thus cyber criminals will be able to purchase MindSystem malware code. Hopefully, such mistakes won’t occur because the ransomware is fully developed with all needed modules for a successful infection.
MindSystem can modify various system settings to ensure its persistent presence on the host. Generally, by adding new values in some registry keys like Run and RunOnce, the threat is able to start automatically at each Windows start. These keys are also used for the display of the ransom message at the end of the attack. Other registry modifications can disable some security features and prevent the user from shutting down the system of logging off his user account profile.
Data Encryption Process of MindSystem
The ransomware has an encryption module that utilizes AES-256 cipher algorithm that modifies all file types that are predefined in its code. Once it changes the original code of the files, they get the extension .mind and remain unusable. Being created for educational purposes, MindSystem ransomware is considered to create a file that contains the decryption key and locate it on a visible destination like the Desktop. However, if the threat is used by extortionists, its code will be changed, and only bad guys will possess the decryption key that will recover .mind files. Thus they have the chance to demand a ransom payment from infected users.
After encryption MindSystem drops a JPG on the PC and displays it automatically on the screen. The whole text on the image reads:
[Your files has been encrypted by MindSystem Ransomware] To Recover them, just use the decryptor with your unique key
For education only! MindSystem 2017
Remove MindSystem Ransomware and Restore Your Files
The most secure way to remove MindSystem ransomware of your system is running a valid anti-malware tool. Another option is trying to eliminate the ransomware manually. There are efficient steps provided below that will help you either way. In case that the created decryption key is not working one of the steps below is dedicated to alternative data recovery approaches that will help with the .mind files restore.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Attention! SensorsTechForum strongly recommends that all malware victims should look for assistance only by reputable sources. Many guides out there claim to offer free recovery and decryption for files encrypted by ransomware viruses. Be advised that some of them may only be after your money.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.
How to Remove MindSystem from Windows.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove MindSystem
Step 2: Uninstall MindSystem and related software from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully uninstall most programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by MindSystem on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by MindSystem there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Scan for MindSystem with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by MindSystem.
Ransomware infections and MindSystem aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Get rid of MindSystem from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall MindSystem and remove related files and objects
1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove MindSystem via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 3 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by MindSystem.
Ransomware infections and MindSystem aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
MindSystem FAQ
What is MindSystem ransomware and how does it work?
MindSystem is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithm how to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
How does MindSystem ransomware infect my computer?
Via several ways.MindSystem Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing e-mails, containing virus attachment.
This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way, you may become a victim of MindSystem is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to open .MindSystem files?
You can't. At this point the .MindSystem files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.
Decryptor did not decrypt my data. What now?
Do not panic and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .MindSystem files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by MindSystem ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.
How Do I restore ".MindSystem" files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .MindSystem files.
These methods are in no way 100% guarantee that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How do I get rid of MindSystem ransomware virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti malware software. It will scan for and locate MindSystem ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .MindSystem files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like MindSystem ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with an anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.
What to Do If nothing works?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted it can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way to get back some of your files is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer. Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
- Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
- United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
- United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
- France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
- Italy - Polizia Di Stato
- Spain - Policía Nacional
- Netherlands - Politie
- Poland - Policja
- Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
- Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
- India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
- Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
