Warning: Devastating Windows Virus Spreading

Jeffery · #1 10/28/13, 10:06 PM

From Komando.com...

Hackers are always plotting new ways to steal your information and money. In fact, there's a dangerous new virus going around that can hijack your computer and wipe out all your files. It's called the Crypto Locker virus, and it's spreading like wildfire. The virus is disguised in an email that looks like it's from a legitimate business like FedEx or UPS. Because the email sounds and looks like the real thing, it's easy to become a victim. If you get the virus, hackers will threaten to destroy all your files - unless you pay up fast. Don't let hackers steal your files and your money. Click the link below to see how to keep this nasty virus off your computer - and what to do if you become infected.

http://www.komando.com/tips/index.as...e_1-cta&page=1
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halfpint · #2 10/29/13, 02:01 PM

This hit one of the news stations in our area, and they had to pay to get their files back. I rarely open files sent to me, but businesses who open many files a day are getting hit by this.

sand flea · #3 10/29/13, 05:16 PM

I just got one from my bank... and didn't see until to late... it wasn't even addressed to me. Kapersky found Java exploits. I've uninstalled java and rebooted. Now to see what else is recommended in that link.

THANKS!

mnn2501 · #4 10/29/13, 05:28 PM

Take whats on Kommando with a grain of salt.
This really is not a widespread virus and it is recoverable from.
and yes, I am in IT.

The biggest way to prevent problems is don't do stupid stuff when you're on your computer.

Stay away from certain types of websites: Get rich quick schemes, porn, freebies, Free (and illegal) TV sites.
Don't click on links or open attachments in emails unless you know the person AND are expecting something from them. (call or email them to verify they sent something)
There are no rich foreigners that are really going to send you millions of dollars, You didn't win a lottery you never entered, and Bill Gates (Michael Eisner, Steve Jobs, etc) is not going to send you $1000 for forwarding an email.

And of course have a good anti-virus program Keep it updated and run scans often, (weekly is usually good enough)

sand flea · #5 10/29/13, 05:49 PM

Well, I didn't have this one. I know better than doing what I did (former IT helping users undo just this kind of thing - duh).

It was some kind of Java exploit - another one, I should say. I wish java would just go away... sigh. All is well with puter.

arabian knight · #6 10/29/13, 11:57 PM

Well everyone by now should have Java Disabled. And that goes for All OS included Macs.

Java Script which is ok, is not at all connected with Java.

nursemombren · #7 10/30/13, 05:42 PM

This is Nursemombren's husband. I am a computer repair professional. I am certified by CompTIA. Uninstalling Java is not the answer. The people who got hit with this virus almost certainly didn't have adequate virus protection. Get a good anti-virus program and keep it up to date. You also need to keep your PC up to date with protection against security vulnerabilities by running such things as Windows updates. If you think you already have the virus, installing a good anti-virus program will detect it and eliminate it.