How to Remove Mystic Stealer Virus

Is your PC or laptop not working just like before? Maybe, you’re also one of the victims. Imagine having a digital pickpocket which can steal data from your computer without letting you know. 

Well for such a task, hackers have developed mystic stealer virus. It’s a clever, dangerous piece of malware which appeared on the darknet scene in April. 

In this blog post, I’ll help you identify whether you have Mystic Stealer virus or not. And if you have it, I’ll show you how to remove Mystic Stealer virus. 

What is Mystic Stealer, Anyways?

Mystic Stealer is like the spy of the malware world. It works covertly, gathering credentials from a wide variety of web browsers—nearly 40 kinds of them, to be specific, and more than 70 extensions in between. If you use cryptocurrency wallets, Steam accounts, or the popular messaging platform Telegram yourself, it’s worth knowing that Mystic Stealer might be there. 

This secret virus doesn’t just stop at stealing your login details, it steals your computer-related data. For instance, your system’s hostname, user name, GUID (Globally Unique Identifier), and even your keyboard layout settings. To put it another way, it’s a bit like having a burglar rummaging through YOUR home while you’re still inside of it.

The Potential Damage of Mystic Stealer

Mystic Stealer is more than just a privacy threat, it’s also an information security risk. By stealing sensitive data, such as passwords, websites visited, and cryptocurrency wallet details, it can open a path to financial losses through fraud and identity theft. The worst part? It’s almost impossible to detect with typical anti-virus software.

But there’s more bad to come. Mystic Stealer can also act as a springboard for other cyber threats like ransomware that could lock your files and ask for ransom as well. With these improved features, Mystic Stealer is comparable with dangerous malware such as Skuld Stealer and PirateStealer.

How Mystic Stealer Sneaks onto Your Computer

Mystic Stealer is commonly delivered to your computer via email attachment from unknown sources, files downloaded from websites, or exploited vulnerabilities in your software, operating systems and antivirus programs. Visiting compromised websites can also act as an instant trigger for malware downloads. In other words, it’s kind of like walking on a hidden landmine.

How to Detect Mystic Stealer Virus

Detection is crucial in the battle against any sort of malware, including Mystic Stealer. Finding a Mystic Stealer infection might seem like finding a needle in the haystack-type task but don’t despair just yet. Here are some tried and tested methods for increasing the probability of success.

Unusual System Behavior

When you notice your system acting weirdly or if it starts behaving differently, there’s a chance something is fishy. Here’s what to look out for when dealing with red flags of Mystic Stealer infections:

• Unusual processes or programs running in the background
• Slow performance or frequent crashes
• Unknown applications or files appearing on your system
• Unexpected changes in your system settings

Mystic Stealer would like to know as much information about your system as possible, including the host name of your system, user name and GUID. It is also trying to identify likely system users’ geolocation via locale and keyboard layout. So if you see any changes in these areas or unexpected network traffic then that might be a clue that Mystic Stealer is at work.

Antivirus Scanning

Regularly scan your system with an antivirus and you’ll have an amazing tool to detect malware. While Mystic Stealer is meant to avoid detection, no piece of malware can perfectly cover itself from being picked up by many reputable antivirus solutions. If you’re using an updated antivirus program, Mystic Stealer will definitely pop out. 

The antivirus software works by comparing files on your computer to a database of known malware signatures. If it finds a match, it flags the file as a malicious program. But because new malware like Mystic Stealer is being constantly developed, this kind of database needs to be regularly updated in order to remain effective. So make sure that the antivirus software is set for automatic update.

Instead of standard scans, many antivirus solutions also offer real-time protection—continuously monitoring your system for any hints of malware. 

Employing Security Tools

Antivirus software is not the only security tool out there. In fact, a firewall can keep unauthorized people from accessing your system and potentially stopping Mystic Stealer before it even stealths into your computer.

IDSs or Intrusion Detection System monitor the traffic for suspicious activity and potential threats. This is helpful in detecting a Mystic Stealer infection since the malware communicates with a command and control server to check the data stolen from the computer.

Another layer of security is provided through endpoint security solutions. Such tools protect network endpoints like desktops, laptops, and mobile devices from cyber threats. As a result, it becomes hard for Mystic Stealer to access your computer. 

Preventive Measures Against Mystic Stealer

The phrase, “prevention is better than cure,” becomes even more relevant because Mystic Stealer can take a lot from you in an instant. A lot of effective preventive measures can be taken to significantly lower the possibility of being a victim of such a malware.

Regular Software Updates

Updating your software is like putting on armor on your devices. Outdated software might cause vulnerabilities. This is like having an open door for Mystic Stealer. You should regularly update the operating system, web browsers and other applications as well. Consider setting your device to update automatically and look out for new updates frequently.

Strong Password Practices

Put a strong password and it will be your first line of defense. For each individual account, create complex unique passwords using all kinds of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and also certain symbols. Do not include any information that is easily guessable like names or birthdays as these tend to be weak links when it comes to unauthorized access. Using a quality password manager will make your job very easy. After all, you can change your passwords periodically. 

Firewall and Antivirus Protection

Most firewalls act as a wall between your devices and potential dangers. They block unauthorized access while allowing safe traffic. Paired with a reliable antivirus solution that can detect, quarantine, and remove malware, you create an impenetrable shield that makes it dramatically harder for Mystic Stealer to gain entry into your system. Keep both your firewall and antivirus software regularly up-to-date for maximum effectiveness.

How to Deal with Mystic Stealer Infection

If you find out that you have been targeted by a Mystic Stealer attack, don’t freak out. You definitely have a serious situation on your hands, but using a quick and effective response can minimize damage and save your information. Here’s exactly what to do: 

Isolate & Disconnect

Once you suspect a Mystic Stealer infection, your first move should be isolating the infected device. Disconnect from all networks (like Wi-Fi or Ethernet cables) to prevent the malware spreading to other devices or communicating with its command & control server. Disconnect any external ones too since these might be affected as well.

Mystic Stealer Virus Removal

Removing the Mystic Stealer malware from a device that is isolated should be our next move. Use an antivirus software with a good reputation capable of detecting and eliminating this specific threat. Here are a few that I know: 

1. Norton 360: Norton is regarded as one of the esteemed names in cybersecurity. It provides comprehensive protection against various threats such as from malware, ransom, as well as phishing attacks . Besides these features, it has perks like a password manager and VPN to give additional security.
2. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus: This program gets very high scores for its malware removal and rating. It also adds features like ransom protection, remediation,  and phishing protection. In addition to that, it provides a VPN for enhanced security. 
3. Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes is best known for its talent at finding and removing new malware. Use it in combination with other antivirus software to give your system a deep cleanse.
4. Avast Free Antivirus: Avast gives many security services, including effective malware removal and detection. Its free version is pretty potent, but its premium versions are more expensive.
5. Kaspersky Antivirus: This provides good malware detection, even against Mystic Stealer-like threats. The package also contains features like online banking and shopping protection.
6. Gridinsoft Anti-Malware: This Anti-Malware is made to target all kinds of computer threats on your windows PC. It prevents, detects and removes all the types of malware including Adware, PUPs, and other programs. 

Whichever program you, make sure it gets frequent updates. Hackers constantly update their virus. So an antivirus program with no frequent updates is as bad as having no program. Also, be sure to only download these programs from their official websites or authorized distributors to avoid downloading more malware.

Recovery and Reporting

After the malware is removed, shift your attention on recovery and reporting. Recover any affected data from secure back ups and once you’re sure they haven’t hosted the malwares, run thorough scans on restored files and devices to make sure they’re not hosting the malware.

Report the incident if sensitive data or financial information was stolen. Report any affected individuals or organizations as well, so everybody involved is able to take precautionary measures to protect their own information.

Final Thoughts

Last but not the least, learn something from this incident. Update your devices regularly, don’t use shady antivirus software to save yourself from future Mystic Stealer infection and please learn safe browsing habits. The most important thing, avoid free antivirus tools at all costs.