Cryptolocker, the virus that blocks your PC and asks for a “ransom”

PC frozen and a “ransom” request: these are the consequences of the Cryptolocker virus attack. How to defend yourself? Tips to avoid infection.

Security alert for thousands of Italians – whether private individuals or companies – due to a virus that is spreading very quickly.
It is called “Cryptolocker” and it effectively “kidnaps” the computers of the unsuspecting, blocking all their content.
The machine effectively becomes unusable and all saved documents are frozen and inaccessible. The same happens to other PCs, in the case of networks (company or home).
To regain possession of your PC, there is only one way: pay a kind of ransom.
The virus is causing many problems and is spreading with great speed, so much so that the Postal Police has decided to release information to protect as many people as possible.
Investigations have been launched, but the perpetrators of the Cryptolocker virus have not yet been identified; similarly, a remedy has not yet been found to prevent users from being forced to pay the “ransom” to allow the hackers behind this massive attack to initiate the procedure to decrypt the “frozen” data on their PCs.
How does Cryptolocker work? How does infection happen?
Cryptolocker travels via email: many people are receiving an email in their inbox containing a notification about a hypothetical purchase made online and then returned: “Thank you for your recent order, and we confirm that we have received the returned products,” this is the incriminating text.
Inside the email, there is usually a link that would (falsely) lead to more information about the merchandise and the alleged shipment.
A second variant is the same email, but forwarded with an attachment, usually a PDF.
By clicking on the link or opening the attachment, the Cryptolocker virus infection process is activated.
The user will notice immediately, especially because a screen will automatically pop up stating that all the content of their device will be blocked until a sum is paid.

The amount is variable and reaches a maximum of 800 euros. Until the money is sent, the PC will remain unusable.
The Postal Police advises not to pay any ransom, while waiting for the right antivirus to be found.
It is also advised to always keep your operating system and antivirus up to date, as well as to periodically back up your PC’s content, so you always have a copy of important files.
In addition to doing all of the above, it is always advisable not to open suspicious emails, deleting them directly. It is especially better to avoid opening attachments and clicking on links, if you are not sure of the sender and what you are about to view.

Pubblicato in Guides & Tutorials