ALERT: New virus going around that is nasty called CryptoLocker

CryptoLocker

Description from Snopes.com:
The so-called "CryptoLocker virus" is an example of ransomware, a class of malware that, once it has infected a particular computer system, restricts access to that system until the user pays a ransom. CryptoLocker is a particular form of ransomware known as cryptoviral extortion, a scheme in which key files on the system's hard drive are encrypted and thus rendered inaccessible to the user unless and until that user pays a ransom to obtain a key for decrypting the files.

The CryptoLocker worm is generally spread via drive-by downloads or as an attachment to phony e-mails disguised as legitimate messages from various business, such as fake FedEx and UPS tracking notifications. When a user opens such a message, CryptoLocker installs itself on the user's system, scans the hard drive, and encrypts certain file types, such as images, documents and spreadsheets. CryptoLocker then launches a window displaying a demand for ransom (to be paid in less-traceable forms such as Bitcoins and Green Dot Moneypaks) and a countdown timer showing the date and time before which the user must submit payment in order to obtain the decryption key before it is destroyed.

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UK - Pensioner shocked by child porn ransom threat

Jack Clark

Original Article

10/29/2013

A pensioner is warning other computer users to be vigilant after he was targeted by scammers trying to extort money.

Jack Clark, 74, of Fatfield, Washington, was shocked to see a message purporting to be from the police after his computer locked him out while he was researching his family history.

The message said his PC had been blocked after claiming it had been used to view child and animal pornography.

The ransomeware virus installed itself on his computer, and threatened that unless he handed over £100 to clean his PC, he could face a £250,000 fine or six years in jail.

Grandfather-of-two Mr Clark, married to Hilda, 73, said “I just couldn’t believe it.”

“I rang the police, and before I had finished explaining, the officer said ‘it’s a scam’. It was a good hour before my legs had stopped shaking.”

A police spokesman said: “We would always warn people of the dangers of anyone calling a number which pops up on their computer claiming there is a problem. Reporting anything suspicious to police is the right thing to do.”

“We always advise people never to give out any personal details – particularly bank details – out over the phone or online.”

“These are fraudsters who want to scam the owner out of cash or get access to personal details.”

He added that anyone with doubts about such calls or messages should contact the Office of Fair Trading.

FL - New scam accuses computer users of viewing child porn

Original Article

09/24/2012

CRAWFORDVILLE - The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office Financial Crimes Unit has received two calls about a new computer scam, according to Sheriff Donnie Crum.

The two potential victims said they were both using the internet when a pop-up advertisement appreared. The ad indicated that it was from the FBI and the user had been viewing child pornography on their computer. The pop-up further stated that a fine of $200 could be paid and the computer could be unfrozen. In order to pay the fine, the site requests the user purchase a "Money Pack" or "Green Dot" card.

Sheriff Crum warns residents that this is a scam and not to send any money. It is also recommended that the computer have a full virus/malware/spyware scan completed and to have a virus/malware/spyware protector installed.

The WCSO Financial Crimes Unit has been in contact with the Green Dot company’s fraud department and they are aware of the situation. The F.B.I. is also aware of the situation and is taking appropriate action.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement says that this is a well-known and documented scam that has been used before and has now resurfaced. If you are or know any scam victims, contact WCSO Detective Matt Helms at 745-7190.