Peritech's-Blog

URGENT ALERT: INCREASING CRYPTOLOCKER TRAFFIC

by: Ashley Dowdy

The Cryptolocker malware, also known as Ransom malware, is an especially destructive virus that encrypts all of your data.  For those that don’t know anything about it, it is malicious software that is usually passed around through infected email attachments, such as voicemail messages or faxes.  Once you download and open the infected attachment, it goes through your computer and encrypts ALL of your files.  Once the malware finishes, you will get a message on your computer informing you that your files have been encrypted.  Cyber criminals then force you to pay to get the data back, with no assurance they will actually follow through if you do. 

The Cryptolocker malware has been out for some time now, but emails infected with it seem to have increased lately.  This is just one important reason why you back up your files frequently and make sure if you data does become encrypted, that you do not overwrite your backup.  Since the spammers are constantly changing their messages, make sure you do not open unsolicited emails and download files without confirming their sources.  Keeping your anti-virus programs and anti-malware programs updated are other ways to protect yourself.