WHAT IS CRYPTOLOCKER?Also known as “Locky”, CryptoLocker is a ransomware Trojan which targets Australians, particularly those running Microsoft Windows as their operating system. Ransomwares are known to demand money from their victims in exchange for their computer files and information. The most common emails that this virus attaches itself to are |
HOW DOES CRYPTOLOCKER WORK?
CryptoLocker works by sending an e-mail containing something similar to “An agent was unable to redeem the parcel to your place for the reason: receiver was absent” as subject. The e-mail comes with a seemingly legitimate attachment that pretends to be a PDF file. Once the file is downloaded and opened, the ransomware runs a JavaScript code that freezes most of your computer files, including files in mounted drives as well as servers, and forces you to pay hundreds of dollars to unlock them. The amount of money that CryptoLocker demands escalates each day you don’t pay. CryptoLocker uses an encryption that can only be decrypted using a private key. Since the guys behind CryptoLocker are the only ones who know the private key, you need to pay the ransom. They usually only wait for a few days before they get rid of the key. Once the key is gone, your files are gone as well.
HOW CAN CRYPTOLOCKER BE AVOIDED?
- Don’t open suspicious files.
- Source the company e-mailing you and call them directly. Don’t call the number from the e-mail.
- Backup your files frequently so you can easily restore factory settings if your computer gets infected.
- Disable Microsoft Office’s macros by default.
- Don’t stay logged in as an administrator longer than necessary. Avoid browsing or opening documents while you have admin rights.
- Make sure all your data is backed up regularly (most preferably daily) in two locations: one online and the other on a local drive.
If you have been victimized by CryptoLocker or simply want to protect your computer from future malware attacks, call us at 0410 659 349. We can help with data backup and recovery, virus removal, and many other computer services.