Yet another global computer virus threatens the planet, this time demanding you pay up! Cryptolocker virus is not technically a virus, which is a malware that replicates itself and spreads across a network. It is detected as a trojan and/or ransomeware with a purpose; to hold your files hostage until you pay $300. End-users that have made the payment using moneypak reported they still did not get their files back and now are disputing the charge. So, what do you do to protect your family photos, corporate data, and everything that’s important to you on your computer against Cryptolocker? If you’re already infected with the virus, turn your computer off right away and contact a computer repair shop for virus removal.
5 Things You Should Know About Cryptolocker
- It does not freeze your computer. However, it will give you a count down to pay the ransom or your data will be encrypted/lost.
- It gives cyber-criminals the only decryption key to unlocking your data, so without their assistance, your data is lost.
- It also affects network file shares, USB drives, and cloud storage folders.
- Cryptolocker demands payment must be made immediately, usually with 48 hours or a maximum of 3 days. Paying may not unlock your data!
- Cryptolocker installs itself to the Documents and Settings folders under a random name. It also adds itself to the start-up program list to run every time you boot your computer.
Protect Yourself From Cryptolocker
The first line of defense for ransomeware like Cryptolocker is you. Ignore the obvious pop-up ads, strange emails, email attachments from strangers, and strange links on social media websites. If you can spot an obvious malware attack, you can prevent it from getting on to your computer. Also, make sure you have anti-virus software like Vipre or Trend Micro and be sure it’s updated. If you need anti-virus software to protect your computer against malware like Cryptolocker and other dangerous computer viruses, call a computer repair and service company. They should be equipped with the latest and greatest in computer and network security. Lastly, implement some kind of local and off-site backup. Having both a local and off-site backup saves time, energy, and cost if you do end up getting a computer infection.
What To Do If Your PC Has Cryptolocker
If you already have Cryptolocker, time is of the essence! At first sight of the malware, immediately hard boot your PC (press and hold the power button) to shut it down. The malware can only run while your computer is on. DO NOT power your system back on. If you have a backup, great! If not, you need to disucss your options with a computer repair professional. Your local computer repair company can assist you with recovering from Cryptolocker. Hopefully, the computer technician is able to find and remove all infected files before the malware encrypts your data. If not, the computer is repairable by reloading the operating system but your data may not be recoverable. Best thing is, if infected with Cryptolocker, shut your computer off right away and call someone familiar with this infection.
If you’re in need of immediate attention regarding the Cryptolocker virus or any other malware infection, give us a call. We provide computer repair and virus removal in Austin, TX and nationwide with remote technical support. We’ve personally resolved this and many other computer infections saving our customers the heartache of lost data.
