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This page is an archive of previously-published content. The information was accurate at the time it was published; however, the information may no longer be accurate or complete. If you have any questions about current Car-Part products, please contact your sales or support rep.
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| Volume 07 - Issue 12 | |
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Beware the Cryptowall 2.0 Virus
Recently, the Cryptowall 2.0 virus has made national news.
This particular virus is typically sent via an email that appears as if it is coming from Amazon, Target, Paypal, UPS, or other major companies. The email instructs you to click on a link (or open an attached file) to view your order details. You might click on this during the holiday season believing that it is a legitimate order from a reputable vendor, but it is not.
If you click this link, the virus will encrypt ("lock") all common file formats (.jpg, .doc, .xls, .gif, etc.) with up to 2048 bit encryption. This is a virtually unbreakable encryption. This will encrypt any files that are on your hard drive, cloud drive, or mapped network drive.
You would then receive a notice stating that you must transfer 3 bitcoins (approximately $1050) to the makers of the virus to receive the decryption key. Whether you actually receive the decryption key is a matter of speculation.
Please be extra aware that these emails seem very legitimate and may not be in your junk folder or labeled as spam/junk. Here is an example of this email that JC Chastain, our Checkmate Development Manager, received. (But he did NOT click the link or open any file from this email!)
(Remember, emails harboring this virus may appear to be from a variety of companies other than Target.)
Your best defense against this virus is to make frequent backups and remove them from the system. You can do this by burning the files to a DVD, USB drive, or removable hard drives. The important thing to remember is to disconnect the backup media from the system after the backup is finished saving. If left in place, the backup would be at risk. Another good practice to follow is to make sure you do not click on any link from an email unless you are sure that it will direct you to the vendor website. If you are not sure, consider not clicking the link but instead opening a browser, going to the vendor website, and logging in to your account to view any order information. This is the safest practice.
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