Computer CryptoWall Virus on the Rise
When you hear someone talking about a virus on the rise, you probably instantly assume they are talking about the Ebola virus that has caused an outbreak in West Africa. But there is another virus on the rise that you should be aware of. One that is more likely to affect you: the CryptoWall virus. The CryptoWall virus has held over 600,000 computers hostage! How terrible would it be if you lost all of your pictures- the ones of your baby girl taking her first steps or of Rover fetching in the backyard or your entire selfie collection? It would be devastating.
What will the CryptoWall virus do?
The CryptoWall virus will secretly encrypt all of the files on your computer, including your pictures. After the encryption, you will receive a message with instructions on how to access a decryption service where you will have to pay a ransom to purchase a decryption program. Ransoms have been reported at $500 and higher!
If you choose not to pay the ransom, there is no way to unencrypt the files. All versions of Microsoft Windows operating systems are at risk.
How you can protect yourself?
- Backup all of the files currently on your computer to a separate device or CLOUD service. Continue to regularly backup.
- Do not open email attachments from unknown sources.
- The latest strain of the virus has been reported to have come from web advertisements, so do not click on web advertisements unless you are positive you know the source.
- Make sure you have the latest version of antivirus software running. Also apply the latest security patches for your operating system.
- Disconnect any external drives (flash/USB drives, etc.) from your computer after use. The virus targets all drives, including any attached USB or external drives.
This virus is just one of the many security and data breaches we have seen recently. You might recall our post earlier this year about Target. Home Depot, Staples, Michaels, Dairy Queen, Jimmy Johns, and Kmart among other have all fallen victims too. As you can see from the CryptoWall virus, businesses aren’t the only ones being targeted.
Please take some time to protect your computer from this virus!