Beware of Ransomware - Written by David Moreno at Mobile Tech Computer Services LLC

One evening, while watching TV, your phone rings.  On the phone is a technician from Microsoft that needs to connect to your computer to remove a virus that is affecting some users. He asks for your email address and sends you a link to click on that will automatically install some software for him to connect to your computer. You follow his instructions and then all of a sudden, a window fills your screen. It has a message saying that your computer is infected, please call to have it removed. The technician on the phone sounds surprised that the infection has gotten so bad and gives you his fee to have it removed.

You can’t open your pictures folder, or any of your document folders. So you give the technician your credit card information. The technician then says that the card didn’t work and if you can try a different one. Then, that one also doesn’t work. At this point he suggests buying an apple gift card in the amount of his fee and use that as payment. You again follow his instructions, purchase the gift card, and give him the gift card code. Without warning the phone line cuts off. The virus is still on your computer and you still cannot open any of your files.

You call back the number and a different technician answers the phone and tells you if you want access to your computer and your files again you have to pay again.

This may seem like fiction but it is all too real. This is one of many examples of Ransomware. Your computer is the hostage and to get back access to it, you have to fork over a never ending amount of cash. In some cases, the Ransomware just blocks access to your computer and in other cases, they encrypt all your files. In this real example, the customer lost $400 worth of gift cards and gave access to two credit cards that needed to be cancelled.

Ransomware is more commonly installed on your PC by visiting suspicious websites, downloading fake drivers, or even clicking on an infected advertisement. But getting a phone call from a fake technician is becoming an increasing problem. These Phone Fraudsters tend to specifically target retirees and the elderly but anyone can receive a call. Unfortunately, this problem is not going away anytime soon. According to Norton these fraudsters can make up to $33,000 a day with one specific attack.

We recommend that you have the following in place to protect your computer:

1. Install a layered security software solution and keep it up to date
2. Install a 3^rd party pop-up blocker in your Internet browser
3. Install a website reliability scanner in your Internet browser
4. Install a reliable image backup to protect your data, applications and operating system

We take a layered security approach in the security solutions we offer. Whether you are a large or small business or even a home user, we offer many options to fit our client’s budget and needs. Just as it is important to keep up with the maintenance of a vehicle, it is equally important to have regular maintenance on your computer to protect your data and keep your system running smoothly.

Ransomware is just one of many threats that can compromise your system. It can be confusing to decide on what software to use and knowing what will actually work.  If you need help, feel free to contact us.

Reference:  Norton: http://us.norton.com/ransomware/article