Increase in Harmful Ransomware

Ransomware: The Locky Virus

With an increase in the Locky (Cryptolocker) virus appearing as email attachments and then infecting computers once downloaded, it’s important to stay vigilant with online and email security throughout your business. The old variant of Locky, mentioned in this previous blog, was encrypting files with the .ODIN extension, however the latest variant is now appearing as a .THOR extension.

To prevent your network from being attacked by this ransomware virus, ensure that you and your co-workers are not opening attachments (specifically RAR or ZIP files) from unknown users.

Currently it’s not possible to decrypt this form of ransomware, so the only way to recover encrypted files is via a backups. Regular backups are important so that should the worst happen, you can recover your data and minimise your losses.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a form of malware (malicious software), that encrypts your files and then demands ransom money for the release of those files, however there is no way of knowing that once you pay the ransom your files will be released. Often if the files are released upon payment of the ransom fee the virus isn’t completely removed from your system, so the ransom could keep popping up over and over again.

Advice

If you don’t have an in-house IT technician, investing in an IT support company you trust is an essential factor in ensuring the safety and capability of your IT infrastructure and network. This way, in case of a disaster such as a virus takeover of your company computer network, or even fire or theft, you know you have a reliable IT company who have a system recovery plan in place for you.

At Trisoft we pride ourselves on ensuring our customers are well protected with up-to-date anti virus software and backups of their systems. Our highly trained and knowledgeable engineers offer tailored advice for your business, enabling you to relax knowing your IT infrastructure is in safe hands. If you’d like to know more about Trisoft’s disaster recovery plans click here, or learn more about our IT support here.

If you’d like to speak to a member of our team about our IT support packages, please call 0115 8223456.