FBI warns of ransomware scam

The FBI has issued a warning about a new type of ransomware which freezes the users’ computer and denies them access to it unless they pay $200 via an online money transfer. The virus, which is called Reveton and works with a piece of malware called Citadel, has been about for a while, and the FBI warns that infections of the virus are increasing both in the US and Internationally.

The Reveton virus can infect your computer by merely clicking on an infected website. It is pretty easy to tell if your computer gets the virus has you will get a message claiming to be from the FBI or the Department of Justice. The message claims that you are guilty of some sort of violation and need to pay a fine. Some users have paid the ‘fine’ just to get their computers unlocked, the FBI says.

The FBI also warns that the malware is hard to remove from your computer and that you would likely need expert help to remove the virus if your computer becomes infected, even if you do manage to unfreeze the computer yourself.

There have been similar viruses in the past that have locked computers and have left people unable to access the Internet or any of their files and photos. Some of the viruses originated from Russia and they were in the news quite often some years ago.

The FBI warns people not to pay the $200 and advises people to file a complaint with them if their computer becomes infected.
 

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