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Ransomeware And Scareware
Latest Threats: Ransomware and Scareware
Viruses. Spyware. They’re enough to give you fits, but they’re now joined by two new gremlins: ransomware and scareware.
Ransomware kidnaps your files and doesn't return them till you pony up some cash. This equal-opportunity offender has recently targeted
thousands of private companies, individuals, hospitals and schools. Another recent addition to the rogue’s gallery, scareware, does far
less damage, posing more of a nuisance than a real threat.
If you have been a victim of a Ramsonware attack, switch off your computer and call the experts at CompuRepair -
Computer repairs Brisbane to minimise the damage
caused by the attack. We will remove the infection and clean up your file system of damaged (encrypted) files and if possible try to
restore / recover encrypted files.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware comes in two main types: lock screen and encryption. The first blocks you from using your computer; you can’t
run any programs while the lock screen is up. An encryption ransomware hides all your documents — family photos, music, and any other
personal data — with a secret code, then erases the originals. The program displays a message telling you your data is gone, and if you want
to access it again, you must send money to an account. When the criminals receive the money, they send you the code; when you type it in to
the ransom message on your screen, the software releases your computer or your files.
What is Encryption?
Encryption is a process in your computer that encodes information, scrambling it and making it unreadable to anyone not
in possession of a special mathematical key. Most online retailers and banks use encryption protect data on the internet because it guarantees
the privacy and security of your transactions — an eavesdropper looking for juicy information would receive only gibberish. Encryption is
also used to convert documents and data files into a secret, private form readable only to those who know the password. Ransomware uses
encryption to lock and hide your own files from you, unlocking them only when the software is given the correct code.
How do Ransomware Attacks Happen?
Ransomware is not a normal part of Windows, macOS or other standard operating systems; it always comes from outside
your computer. Typically, ransomware must get installed on your computer, by clicking an attachment link in an email, or by downloading
software from an infected source. Ransomware is usually hidden in other content, revealing itself later only when it’s done its dirty
work.
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Has your Laptop's data been destroyed by a Ransomware attack? Get in contact with us, we will help you to recover as much of your data
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A Typical Message
Ransomware messages vary, but all display an impossible-to-ignore screen in bright colours informing you that your files
are unavailable and telling you to send money. A typical message follows:
Your personal files are encrypted by CTB-Locker. Your documents, photos, databases and other important files have
been encrypted with the strongest encryption and unique key, generated for this computer.
You have only 96 hours to submit the payment. If you do not send money within provided time, all your files will
be permanently crypted and no one will be able to recover them.
Warning! Do not try to get rid of the program yourself. Any action will result in decryption key being destroyed.
You will lose your files forever. Only way to keep your files is to follow the instruction.
Fixing a Ransomware Attack
The best way to foil ransomware is not to get it in the first place. Avoid sketchy websites and don’t click on links
embedded in emails, even if they appear to come from someone you know. Adult and software-pirate websites in particular have a reputation
for being hotbeds of malware. If your computer has been infected, call Compurepair -
Computer repairs Springfield Lakes for
expert assistance in recovering your files.
Is your computer running slow? Is your laptop not booting up? Call
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We are here 24/7 to help with your IT needs. No problem is to small or to big and we come out the same day you call and fix any issue you
experience. Call now: 0403755519.
Ransomware Payment
A relatively new type of digital currency, called Bitcoin, has been favoured by data kidnappers for payment.
Bitcoin is not part of the standard banking system and bypasses the normal ways of tracing money, making ransomware thieves harder to
catch.
Backups
In many cases, you can recover from a ransomware attack by reformatting your hard drive, reinstalling Windows or
other operating system software, then copying your files from your most recent backup. What’s that you say — you don’t have any backups?
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to begin this essential practice, let ransomware be the excuse you’re looking for. This is
especially important to small business owners, whose livelihoods depend on the information in their PCs and mobile devices.
Variants
Ransomware is not a single program but a host of programs that have evolved rapidly in recent years. Examples include
Alfa Ransomware, ZeroLocker, CTB-Locker, CTB-Faker, Crypt0L0cker and CryptXXX.
“White Knight” Utilities
Some computer security companies, including Kaspersky Labs, Trend Micro, and Cisco offer utilities that remove the
offending programs and recover your files without your having to pay a ransom.
A Bad New Twist
Ranscam, a program that recently surfaced, has taken the ransom game to a whole new low. Like other ransomware, it
displays a message demanding money. However, Ranscam simply deletes your files; it does not encrypt or otherwise save them. It also
alters parts of Windows, preventing recovery of deleted files that would otherwise be possible. When the hapless victim pays the ransom,
the files are still lost.
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connection to the internet? Your computers can't talk to each other? Printer disappeared from your Local Area Network (LAN)? CompuRepair
can help to repair any network errors or help you to setup your LAN. Call for a quote: 0403755519.
What is Scareware?
When you visit a website infected with scareware, you will get a pop-up message intended to scare you, such as “Your
account has been turned over to the police,” or “Your computer has a virus.” In reality, however, the software merely hijacks your
browser temporarily. You might not be able to close the tab or the browser window. Scareware does nothing more than scare you into
thinking your computer has been compromised, and you have to take some action, but it’s not true.
Dealing with Scareware
First of all, don’t panic. The scareware programming makes it hard to close the offending tab or window, but you can
usually resolve the situation by quitting the browser program. In some instances, you must stop the browser by issuing a “kill” command,
which varies by operating system. Avoid revisiting the web site that carried the scareware message. If the message is trying to sell
you something, such as an anti-virus program, treat it as a scam and ignore the pitch.
Ransomware and Scareware: How to Tell the Difference
Usually, scareware takes place entirely within the web browser; in a tab or pop-up window. Ransomware, on the other hand,
is an independent program which may prevent you from using other programs on your PC. Ransomware changes files and data on your computer,
but scareware leaves no lasting effect.
Here at CompuRepair, each and every one of our computer technicians has been carefully selected; we make sure that they
have the appropriate technical expertise and experience. So, if you need same day, onsite
computer repairs Brisbane,
Logan, Ipswich, Springfield Lakes, Forest Lakes, North Lakes, Sunshine Coast, Yarrabilba
or on the
Gold Coast
then
Contact Us
Now: 1300-82-92-62.
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