Are You Immune from "Cryptolocker" Style Attacks?

Cryptolocker falls into a class of malware/spyware/viruses called ransomware. On infected computers and networks, it encrypts all of your data. It locks it up tight so you can't use it. If you pay the ransom within the specified time, you get the key to unlock your data. If you don't... Your data is gone forever.

It's been reported that the hackers who made Cryptolocker collected more than $30 Million in ransom in the first 100 days. With that kind of payoff, you can be sure we haven't seen the last of Cryptolocker-style attacks.

There is no 100% way to avoid every attack. You can only follow the best practices and be prepared should you ever get infected.

• Ensure you are getting regular data backups
• Make sure your data backups are stored off the network or in an inaccessible location on the network
• Protect files and folders ensuring only those who need access have access
• Educate your team. Make sure they understand not to open email attachments or follow links unless they are certain it was sent by a reliable source and was expected.

Another Reminder about Windows XP End-of-Life

There are still people who don't realize that on April 8th, 2014, Microsoft will cease to provide any security updates for Windows XP users. That means those users will be a greater risk for infection of viruses and other malware.

If you are still running Windows XP, now is the time to upgrade. You can get new computers with Windows 7. And of course you can get a new computer with Windows 8.1. Stop suffering with an old slow computer and make the switch now!