Cryptolocker: Don’t Be Held Ransom by Cyber Gangs
Ransomware is the latest, and quite possibly the most devious type of malware developed in recent memory. The name comes from the virus’s ability to infect a computer system and either encrypt or lock its files. The files will then stay locked and reman inaccessible for the owner until a ransom has been paid either in a cash voucher or in Bitcoins. CryptoLocker is one such version of the malware that uses infected emails and botnets to infiltrate Microsoft Windows and encrypt files stored on the computer’s local or mounted network. Using public-key cryptography, the ransomer holds the private key to unlock the files which it will provide the victim once the ransom has been forked over. There is no guarantee, however, that once the hacker has been paid, the key will be provided, and the ransom can be as high as £237.
