Ransomware is a form of malware (a virus) that encrypts files, or denies the user the ability to access their device, or both. There are many forms of ransomware, but they all lead to a demand for payment of a ransom for access to be allowed.
Attacks typically come in the form of phishing emails, downloading free software, and remote access scams (someone being provided access to another person’s device and installing ransomware whilst in control). Once the ransomware has been executed, such as by clicking on links or attachments, the criminals have largely automated their whole process. Pop-ups or other screen messaging will alert the user to “a virus” or “encryption” or “computer being locked”. A contact point will be provided, typically with a short timeframe to respond to the ransom demand.
There are two ways to detect ransomware:
There are hundreds of ransomware types, but unfortunately most cannot be decrypted. Ransomware encrypts and the criminals using it have the tools to decrypt. Before you think about paying, you may want to try the following:
Identity Care Australia & New Zealand Ltd (IDCARE) provides identity and cyber security incident response services (the Services) in accordance with the following disclaimer of service:
IDCARE is Australia and New Zealand’s national identity and cyber incident community support service. We are a not-for-profit charity.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this alert, IDCARE disclaims any liability to any person in respect to any actions performed or not performed as a result of the contents of the the Services or any accompanying data provided. Wider dissemination may be permitted by authority in writing from IDCARE’s Managing Director. If you would like to provide feedback please use our Feedback Form.
It’s good cyber security practice to backup your data and files.
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Identity theft is a type of fraud that involves the theft of someone’s personal information.
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A patch is a piece of software designed to update a computer program.
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