CryptoLocker Ransomware is a prolific malware and has been at the forefront of digital crimes. Ever since its inception it has been on an increasing trend and is estimated to infect millions of systems every month.
What is CryptoLocker Ransomware?
With Microsoft Windows as its major target, Cryptolocker Ransomware is a malicious piece of malware. It is designed to infect the system, encrypt data, and hold them for ransom. In addition to this, it also plagues your device with a warning note saying that you will not receive the decryption key until the ransom is paid.
It renders the encrypted files completely useless. In addition to this, hackers ask the ransom in cryptocurrency specifically Bitcoin. This helps them to maintain full anonymity.
How Does CryptoLocker Ransomware Work?
Hackers use various methodologies to deliver ransomware. It can infiltrate your device via spam emails, third-party download websites, and other third-party file sharing sites.
Once the user clicks on these infected links and attachments the malware executes on your device and encrypts your files and data. Post this a ransom note is presented on your computer screen asking for ransom in exchange for the decryption key.
To create a sense of urgency and to force victims into paying the ransom, hackers also threaten victims that the private key for decrypting the locked data is only available for a short time (usually 72 hours). If the ransom is not paid within the given time frame the data will be destroyed and there will be no option to recover it back.
Caution Note: No matter how pressurized you feel, paying the ransom is never an option. Security experts recommend that even if you pay ransom you will never receive the private decryption key. On the contrary, it may load additional viruses on your device.
How To Prevent CryptoLocker Ransomware?
Here are a few simple yet effective prevention tips that will help you stay protected from this destructive malware.
Be aware of the ongoing cyber threats and follow basic computing hygiene to protect yourself from being a victim of digital threats.
As a Spotify Free user, you might feel like you want to block Spotify ads. This could be because they…
As it is one of the most popular digital music, podcast, and video services, a hacked Spotify account may be…
You may, or may not have heard about cracking. Either way, you should be aware of this threat, and learn…
Victim fraud shame is a very dangerous thing that may happen to those who become online victims. Some of them…
We assume that everybody wants to stay safe online. For this, some simple, still very important rules should be followed.…
Have you ever thought about how you could report Cybercrime? Maybe you or one of your friends became the victim…