What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that criminals use to attack computer systems.
Hackers often demand the victim to pay ransom money to access their files or remove harmful programmes.
The aggressive attacks dupe users into clicking on a fake link – whether it's in an email or on a fake website, causing an infection to corrupt the computer.
In some instances, adverts for pornographic website will repeatedly appear on your screen, while in others, a pop-up will state that a piece of your data will be destroyed if you don't pay.
What is the WannaCry virus?
The WannaCry virus targets Microsoft's widely used Windows operating system.
The virus encrypts certain files on the computer and then blackmails the user for money in exchange for the access to the files.
It leaves the user with only two files: Instructions on what to do next and the Wanna Decryptor program itself.
Ransomware Attacks Ravage Computer Networks In Dozens Of Countries.
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- today a massive ransomware virus attack spread to the computer systems of hundreds of private companies and public organisations across the globe.
- Ransomware attacks are not new, but the speed of the recent hackings has alarmed security experts.
- In a few hours, the malware had already infected victims in at least 74 countries,
- including Russia, Turkey, Germany, Vietnam, and the Philippines - and is thought to be spreading at a rate of five million emails per hour
What are the hackers asking for?
** The hackers are asking for payments of around £230 ($300) in Bitcoin.
** Payments can be sent to at least two anonymous Bitcoin wallets that are routed through the Dark Web and cannot be traced.
** Payments appear to be being made to the Bitcoin addresses given in the NHS attack.
** It is not possible to say who has paid the ransom so far.
Who could be behind the attacks?
** The ransomware attack is one of the largest ever seen.
** One cyber-security researcher tweeted that he had detected 36,000 instances of the ransomware, called WannaCry and variants of that name.
** Some of the organisations affected do not appear to have been specifically targeted by the attack, meaning it could be spreading at random.
** A number of different groups could be behind the string of hacking.
** While it is possible a large cyber criminal gang are responsible, the attacks could also be government-orchestrated.
** It has previously been suggested that a string of ransomware attacks on US companies last year were perpetrated by Chinese government hackers.
How to protect yourself from ransomware
Thankfully, there are ways to avoid ransomware attacks, and Norton Antivirus has compiled a list of prevention methods:
1. Use reputable antivirus software and a firewall
2. Back up your computer often
3. Set up a popup blocker
4. Be cautious about clicking links inside emails or on suspicious websites
5. If you do receive a ransom note, disconnect from the Internet
6. Alert authorities
