Windows operating system early adopters -- beware! There is a scam going around taking advantage of those upgrading to the new Windows 10 operating system. There is a reservation system for those who want to get a jump on the new version of Microsoft's OS. The scammers are sending email with an attachment that claims to be the installer for the software. However, it's actually malware and installs CTB-Locker, which encrypts files and holds the system hostage. If the ransom is not paid to the criminals, they will not send the unencrypt file that provides access to your documents.
The antidote to this is to back up all important documents, photos, videos, software packages, etc. to an external drive. This could be a USB stick, depending on how many you want to keep. It could also be an external hard drive that will back up the entire system. There are many reasonably priced options for this and many of them make the process very simple. It is best to get into the habit of performing backups on a very regular schedule, so if something like ransomware does find its way onto your machine, you can restore your files and not feel any pressure to pay the scammers.
In addition, always apply the latest patches and updates to your devices. Cyber criminals often exploit unpatched systems. If you keep on top of these, they don't take so long to apply. Of course, having an anti-malware product installed and kept updated is of the utmost importance. Never pay the ransom in cases where your device is held hostage. This only encourages the behavior. There is also no guarantee that you will get access to your files, even if it is paid.
The email message received is typical for this type of scam. The grammar is poor and it's loaded with punctuation and spelling mistakes, even though it might appear it's from Microsoft. It is not likely that anyone there would approve such a message to be sent to customers. In addition, Windows 10 is a download directly to your computer and is not sent via email.
For banks and credit unions
Share this article with your members
Copy a ready-made summary and link for your newsletter, website or social posts.
