Issue 25.13
I had the opportunity to sit and visit with an FBI agent a few days ago for about an hour and a half. We talked about a number of subjects, but one that may interest many of our readers is the topic of “ransomware”. It is similar to a lot of other scams that begin with a pop-up on your screen telling you that there is a problem with your system and to click on or call a number to talk to Microsoft and have them solve it for you.
I know it should be obvious to all of us that Microsoft really could care less whether your computer has problems or not and that they are not going to know about those problems or contact you if they did exist. These people are simply trying to get you to give them access to your computer and your information. Once they have that, they can disable your computer and charge you anywhere from $100-$300 to fix it. Once they have your money, they disappear, usually leaving your computer non-functional. That is when people call me. I usually can fix the problem, but that doesn’t get their money or their private information back from the hackers. They can’t even work through their credit card company to get their money back because all of these scammers are in other countries that we can’t get to.
The new threat is called ransomware because your screen displays a notice (supposedly from the FBI) that child pornography has been found on your computer and the FBI has locked it until you pay a fine of $200-$400 by clicking on a link on the notice. The computer is not able to be used while this lock is in place and the notice is horribly embarrassing even though it has nothing to do with you or what you have on your computer. Some people just throw away their computer and go buy a new one. This problem is also fixable, but may require a professional.
My contact with the FBI indicated that I could assure my readers that this notice has nothing to do with their Bureau or their policies. If they are sure you have child porn, they will come to your house personally and confiscate your computer. It is rare and only happens when they intercept porn being transmitted from your computer to someone else or being advertised by you. They are actively pursuing those involved in this scam, but again, most of this activity comes from overseas and they can’t do much about it.
The old rule always applies – if you didn’t ask for it, don’t click on it or believe it. When you click on something, it allows that program to infest your computer. Just say “no” – and always remember to back up anything that is important to you.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 30 years, 20 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or through his website at www.bitsnbytescomputers.com.