Ransomware is the top threat facing computer users as Interpol reveals massive 2017 cyber crime “epidemic” taking over PCs as well as internet-linked devices like routers and CCTV cameras to turn them into tools for criminals,” reported the European policing agency Europol. Experts cited attacks such as ‘WannaCry,’ data breaches, the darknet, and extortion of youth for child pornography.
The leaves are changing, the sun is setting sooner, the wind is getting cooler and you’re probably grabbing the sweaters from the other closet. However, ransomware has never been hotter! Fall is officially upon us in the Northern hemisphere. With the days becoming shorter, the darkness descending hours earlier and the temperatures dropping, you might not be too happy that autumn has arrived.
The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) strives for a safer, stronger Internet for all Americans by responding to major incidents, analyzing threats, and exchanging critical cyber security information with trusted global partners. The organization’s Security Tip named “Avoiding Phishing Attacks” explains how to avoid being a victim and what to do if you become a victim.
You can reduce potential damage to your PC by paying attention to when attackers are most likely to strike. Monday may be our least favorite day of the week, but Thursday is when you should watch out for cyber criminals, researchers say. That’s what reports CSO, the security news portal that writes about threats and cyber attacks, and which is affiliated with IDG, the world’s leading tech media company.
Friday after work with the kids at the park. Ian on the swings, Max on the teeter-totter with Kayla, and a few of us parents got talking. Laney’s mom, Evan’s dad, just chatting the way we do. And Luke’s parents started telling us about how their PCs got hacked, totally taken over. It wasn’t a regular worm, it was ransomware. The hackers demanded they pay a ransom to unlock their PCs.
