CTB LOCKER VIRUS OUTBREAK

One of our clients' pc was unfortunately infected with a type of virus called Ransomware today. The virus is called CTB-Locker. In simplistic terms, what this virus does is takes your files hostage (by encrypting them) and claims that if you pay a ransom (generally around $120) they will release your files (This is not a joke or "just a pop up"). Once your machine is infected there is NO WAY of getting your data back. Even paying the ransom does not work.

This used to only apply to servers (old versions of windows as they are vulnerable). It's now infecting mainly PCs with Windows XP. The virus gains access to your pc through an attachment on email or on a memory stick, it then encrypts all your files so that you cannot access them. Your desktop will change to something along the lines of this:



How do I avoid getting this virus:
1. Make sure you have a full backup of your data
2. If you are running Windows XP, your only hope is upgrading to Windows 7 or later (XP no longer offers Security updates).
3. Make sure you have valid and up to date anti-virus and malware.
4. DO NOT OPEN ANY ATTACHMENT YOU ARE NOT EXPECTING. If in doubt, reply to the email, asking if it's valid (or forward to us). UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES DO YOU OPEN THE ATTACHMENT.
5. DO NOT DOWNLOAD ANY PROGRAMS OFF OF THE INTERNET.

How do I know if I have Windows XP:

If your start button is a single square with Start written in it, chances are you running XP. To make double sure, go to start, control panel, system. It will display on the screen what system you are running.

Please note that there are many "cures" on the internet, do not try them yourself, speak to one of our techs. Making sure you have all the Windows updates and up to date Anti-virus, is your best chance.

Please also make sure that when you create your backups, you remove the external hard drive. If it's connected when the virus attacks, it will encrypt those files to. On this note, it can also get through the network (i.e. encrypting your server data or another PC). If you suspect you have opened an attachment you should not have, take out the network cable or disconnect the WiFi IMMEDIATELY.Do not shut down your PC, call us.

If you have any queries regarding this or aren't sure if your pc is protected, please call the Help Desk on 021-5516222.

The Computer Guyz Team