(Newswire.net — November 15, 2013) Miami, Florida — There’s a new malicious software infecting computers around the world. The new malware is called CryptoLocker. It encrypts important personal files and demands a ransom to the victims in order to unlock the compromised files.
According to Sophos, a global digital security company, the new malware has been hitting pretty hard for the past six weeks or so.
Apparently, with the aid of technology, cybercrime is fast evolving. And the bad guys take advantage of the newer technologies as well.
“They’re always looking for new ways to steal your money.” Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance, said.
The sophisticated malware systematically hunts down every one of a victim’s personal files – from documents, databases, photos, videos to music collections. CryptoLocker is different from other types of “ransomware” before.
Before, such malicious software can be removed and your access to your files can be restored. Now, once your files are encrypted, only the bad guys can unlock them as there is only one decryption key.
The typical demanded amount from the victims is $300 USD or 300 EUR. The crooks even displays a digital clock on the victim’s computer screen that counts down from 72 hours to show how much time is left before the unique decryption key gets destroyed. Once destroyed, your files are gone forever.
To prevent the malware from infecting your computer, you must be very cautious. It can be delivered through an executable file hidden inside an attachment. Like any other malware, it may appear like an ordinary PDF or ZIP file.
US-CERT and DHS encourage victims not to respond to extortion attempts and to report the incident to the FBI at the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
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The scarier fact is that your computer would keep working normally even if you’re infected, but you just couldn’t access your personal files. This scenario can be troublesome particularly for those who haven’t backed-up their data.
For more details on how to backup all your PC’s and Mac’s with unlimited space, check out DrivePop backup account plans.
Author: Tania Shipman
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