Even though it was first reported six months ago, a ransomware called Cryptolocker is still affecting some San Diego businesses. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts important files on your computer, then demands a ransom to unencrypt your files. It is particularly nasty because it can also encrypt your backups and any server files you have permission to modify.
Cryptolocker is typically delivered as an attachment to an email the claims to be from UPS, FedEx, Intuit, or other big, well-known company (it is not). The file is an executable file, but is disguised as a .zip. When the user opens it, it looks like nothing happens. However within a short while, you get a screen that warns you that your files are encrypted and you must pay a ransom to get them back.
How to Protect Yourself
There are several steps you can take to protect your computers and network:
1) Offline Backups - Because ransomware can encrypt any writeable files, it can encrypt some backup files. That is why it is important to have offline backup files -- a backup arrangement that prevents data from being inadvertently overwritten. If your computers is infected, you can use the offline backup to restore your computer.
2) User Awareness - To avoid many types of malware, including ransomware, users should be very wary of opening attachments. This is particularly true of executables and .zip files which can contain an executable. Some simple training for users can prevent a lot of potential problems.
3) Software Restriction Policies - This disables the ability of executable files to run within a user’s local appdata folder. Every variant of Cryptolocker, so far, has run an executable from this directory.
Ransomware is definitely one of the nastier malware that can infect your computers and network. So, it is worth some additional effort to protect your files and data. And if you would like some assistance in protecting your IT infrastructure, Skyriver IT would be glad to help.
The Skyriver IT Guarantee
Skyriver IT is so confident that you will be delighted with our frustration-free IT Services, we guarantee your satisfaction. If after 3 months of working with Skyriver IT, you are not absolutely delighted with the service, we will help you find a new IT services company and pay for your first month of service.
If you would like to discuss how we can help make your IT frustration free, please contact us.
