Global outbreak of Ransomware Cyber Attack

Hi everyone, 

There is a global outbreak of ransomware Cyber Attack known as WannaCry affecting users across the globe now. The attack started on Friday, 12 May 2017, infecting more than 230,000 computers in 150 countries.

What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware designed to encrypt users’ files or lock their operating systems so attackers can demand a ransom payment. Similar to a phishing attack, ransomware executes when a user is lured to click on an infected link or e-mail attachment or to download a file or software while visiting a rogue website. Sophisticated social engineering techniques are used to entice users to take the desired action, examples include;
• An embedded malicious attachment appeared to be from a known contact/source with enticing offers/recommendations for Invoice, Job Offer, Cheap Air-fare, Post Parcel etc.
• An e-mail that appears to be from Google Chrome or Facebook invites recipients to click on an image to update their web browser; or
• A well-crafted website mimics a legitimate website and prompts users to download a file or install an update that locks their PC or laptop.

Follow these tips to avoid becoming a victim of ransomware:
• Delete any suspicious e-mail. Messages from unverified sources or from known sources that offer deals that sound too good to be true are most likely malicious. If in doubt, contact the alleged source by phone or by using a known, public e-mail address to verify the message’s authenticity.
• Avoid clicking on unverified e-mail links or attachments. Suspicious links might carry ransomware (such as the WannaCry, CryptoLocker Trojan).
• Use e-mail filtering options whenever possible. E-mail or spam filtering can stop a malicious message from reaching your inbox.

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For further enquiry, please read more on Wikipedia or Microsoft website