VIP

Incidents of Cryptolocker, a ransomware threat, have been high.  Our (Re)commended Antivirus software has stopped them, but unfortunately not all antivirus programs are created equal.  Threats such as these can destroy important files including:  word documents, excel files, and pdf’s and photos. 

What is Cryptolocker?

  • This infection is typically spread through email pretending to be customer support related issues from Intuit, ADP, Fedex, UPS, DHS, Quickbooks, etc.
  • These emails contain an attachment that when opened infects the computer.
  • These files contain executables that are disguised as PDF files.
  • Since Microsoft does not show extensions by default, they look like normal PDF files.
  • Once installed on your computer, it systematically encrypts all documents that are stored on your local computer, as well as ones that are stored on mapped network drives and mounted removable storage.
  • The encryption used is strong, with the decryption key for your files being stored on a remote server.
  • The odds of you being able to break this encryption is almost nonexistent.
  • If you want to get your files back, CryptoLocker asks for you to fork over some cash; either two bitcoins (At the time of writing, worth almost USD $380) or $300 in either MonkeyPak or Ukash prepaid cards.
  • If you don’t pay within three days, the decryption key is deleted and you lose access to your files forever.

The best ways to protect yourself are:

  • Run a trusted and up to date  Antivirus Program.
  • Back up your files. If you use an external hard drive, don’t leave it connected when not in use.  Set up a backup service with us for worry free backups!
  • Do not open unknown attachments from unknown sources.
  • If you were to advise someone with this issue, shutting the computer down and disconnecting the internet would give the best chances to minimize the damage Cryptolocker causes.

 

We are offering a FREE utility that can be set up in minutes to protect your computer from Cryptolocker.   Once this utility is running, it will block  Cryptolocker from launching and ruining your files. The best protection  against threats such as this are offsite backups and a trusted Antivirus program.  

Please contact us today to see what solutions we offer for home and business users. 

Click here for link and install instructions   Free Utility