Ubuntu apt-get update error: 'Problem with MergeList'

Problem description

During an update session on Ubuntu, both on a device or processing machines, you might encounter:

E: Problem with MergeList /var/lib/apt/lists/repo.navvis.com_dists_trusty_main_binary-i386_Packages

E: The package lists or status file could not be parsed or opened.

This prevents any updates or upgrades.

Scope

This problem can occur when updating NavVis VLX or processing software.

Troubleshooting procedure

1. Run the following command to clear broken temporary files from the last update.

   sudo rm /var/lib/apt/lists/*

2. Then refresh the list and continue normal updates/installation.

   sudo apt-get update