Beware of Ransomware

An IT security firm for small businesses has seen an uptick recently in a cybercrime that locks computer files then demands a ransom for the files’ return.

Ransomware is not new among technological threats but has become more sophisticated. The programs seize your files and encrypt them, then send a message asking for payment. Some ransomware threatens to delete the encryption keys if a company does not respond quickly enough, reports PC Mag.

The Internet Crime Complaint Center, a partnership between the FBI and the nonprofit National White Collar Crime Center, said businesses and individuals submitted 2,275 ransomware complaints from June 1, 2014, to March 31. The victims reported losses totaling more than $1.1 million.

Standard security measures such as installing malware protection and avoiding suspicious internet links help prevent ransomware. If your system is attacked, industry experts recommend you disconnect the infected computer from your network immediately.

To learn more about ransomware, go to FarmEquip.org/ransom. S