According to NCCU, the Bitcoin ransomware Cryptolocker attack appears to be targeting small businesses in particular.
The emails carry an attachment that, if downloaded, installs the Cryptolocker malware on the users computer. Cryptolocker works by encrypting the users files on the infected machine and the local network it is attached to. Once encrypted, the computer displays a splash screen with a countdown timer and a demand for the payment of 2 Bitcoins in ransom for the decryption key.
The UK crime agency has advised users not to pay the ransom and warned that even if it were paid, there was no guarantee the encryption key would be turned over. The encryption may be irreversible and chances are users may end of losing all their data and the only option may be to wipe the hard drive clean and restore from the latest backup.
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