CyptoLocker Virus: How to Protect Your Computers
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We want to make you aware of a very serious virus that's going around. The name of this
disturbing new virus is CryptoLocker. The reason for this warning is due to the extreme
nature of the threat. CryptoLocker is a ransomware Trojan which targets computers running
Windows Operating Systems. The Trojan attack may come from multiple sources, however the
most common way is via an email attachment. When it activates, the Trojan encrypts and
"locks" all of your personal computer files in a way that makes it very hard to recover
them via normal methods. The CryptoLocker encrypts and "locks" all of your personal
computer files and mounted network drives. The virus then displays a message which offers
to decrypt the data if payment is ransom of $300 per computer is paid to the creators of
the virus within the deadline.
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Immediate action you should take to protect your computer (personal or business):
- Remind everyone to never open an email attachment unless they are expecting the
attachment in advance.
- Never open a compressed (.zip) file sent via email. A zipped attachment is always
a dangerous email... Be aware!
- Enable on your computer to show file extensions so you know what you try to open.
- Make sure your anti-virus software is up to date and functioning correctly.
- Make sure you have a good backup plan for all your data. You should maintain multiple
copies of backups for all data. At least one copy of your backups should be unplugged
from your computer or network and in a safe place.
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If you suspect that your computer has been infected by a virus you should immediately unplug
your computer from your network, turn off your computer and contact a trusted IT professional
for assistance. DO NOT turn your computer back on until the potential threat has been eliminated.
If you have any questions at all about any virus threat or would like more in information on how to
secure your data and protect your information, please contact us. We're here to assist.
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