Where is Ransomware?
Ransomware can be found everywhere. We thought that the well known file-encrypting ransomware, as known as CryptoLocker, was over and done with after law enforcement knocked out its infrastructure last year, but CryptoLocker , as well as other variations of malware, are back.
Ransomware is a form of malware that will prevent you from having access to your files and even your computer. Then, it attempts to extort money from you in exchange to allow you access to your computer again.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware and other fake antiviruses have been around for many years. They are relying on social engineering to try to get computer users, like yourself, to pay the “cyber criminals”, so their make believe warnings claim, to avoid fines and other costs from the local police for supposed crimes you didn’t commit, or to clean up the “viruses” on your computer that aren’t actually there.
Variations of the malware, as called crypto-ransomware or cryptoware – don’t allow things like that to fool you. Attackers tell their victims up-front that they have encrypted the computer files. You, then, would that to pay for the encryption key. The crooks destroy the private encryption key, making it impossible to recover your files.
Don’t forget to check back later for more on how it works and how to stay safe in follow up posts!!
