BBB Alert: New Ransomware Targeting Businesses Files May Be Unrecoverable Without Paying Ransom BBB is warning Accredited Businesses of a new computer threat that steals information, encrypts the data, and then charges $300 in ransom for recovery of the files. The ransomware is called CryptoLocker, and is the latest attempt by scammers to hold businesses computer information hostage in order to make a quick buck. Heres how it works: the program disguises itself as a legitimate email attachment in a .zip file format. Inside that .zip file will be a double extension file such as .pdf.exe. The problem is you may never see that double extension as Windows default settings may hide that extension and just display the icon for a PDF file. Multiple victims have reported the email appears as a shipping notice from the U.S. Postal Service or FedEX. This email may appear to be from other legitimate organizations such as Amazon or other online vendors. When opened it goes to work encrypting files stored on local and mounted network drives. The key needed to unlock the encrypted files is then stored on the malwares servers. A message displays on the monitor offering to decrypt the data for $300 with a deadline of 72-100 hours. If the user does not pay the fee the private key will be deleted and the files will be lost forever. Payment of the ransom allows the user to download the decryption program, which is pre-loaded with the users private key. One of the biggest threats with CryptoLocker is that, while the program itself is readily removed, the files remain encrypted in a way that several experts consider infeasible to break. To this point there is no solution to recovering these files without paying the ransom. Another big concern is the loss of any banking information stored on the computer. The risk of identity theft can carry a much higher price tag and be a much bigger concern than the encrypted files. It is important that businesses contact their anti-virus software providers to determine if they have protection against this ransomware and others like it. Here are some tips to avoid being a victim of ransomware and other computer threats: • Regular backups of your files are the only way to prevent the complete loss of files to programs like CryptoLocker. • Never open an email attachment that seems random, odd, or suspicious. • Do not open double extension files sent via email attachments. • Carefully consider operating in the cloud to keep files encrypted and out of the reach of such attacks. Constant backup is still advised while using the cloud for storage. • Install a firewall and anti-virus program to protect your computer and personal information. Update these programs frequently. While it may not detect all ransomware, it should stop many threats. • Update your operating system and web browser software regularly. • Protect your passwords by keeping them in a safe place. Create different passwords for each online account that you have. • Never give personal or financial information to unsolicited callers. • Contact your service provider directly if you are concerned you may be exposed to viruses or other security threats. • Find a computer repair company you can trust. Go to bbb.org to find a BBB Accredited Business you can trust as well as check out a business. United States and Canada BBB Consumer and Business Reviews, Reports, Ratings, Complaints and... The Better Business Bureau of the United States and Canada offers consumers and businesses resources including business and charity reviews, complaints, statistics, ratings, and more to assist in intelligent buying decisions and investment opportunities. bbb.org
Posted on: Tue, 12 Nov 2013 16:46:42 +0000
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