by began steele
Sat Jan 25, 2014 9:16 am
I had the following from my bank which is a real mail, in my case Santander. It would equally apply to any bank which is why I post it.
Dear MR YOUR REAL NAME
To make sure your personal details and computer aren't compromised, we wanted to make you aware of a significant email scam that's being received by some of our customers at the moment.
How to recognise the email
The email has an attachment which appears to be correspondence linked to the email.
All official emails from us will address you by name. If an email that says it's from us doesn't do this, don't open any attachments within it.
What does the attachment do if it's opened?
It can install a virus which will encrypt your computer files and the files on your local network. Once encrypted, the computer will display a screen with a count down timer and ask for a ransom payment for the decryption key to allow you to access your files.
What's being done about the email?
The National Crime Agency's National Cyber Crime Unit (NCCU) is aware of the email and is working hard to trace the source. Until they do, this email has been assessed as a significant risk. Anyone who is infected with this malware should report it via http://www.actionfraud.police.uk
What should I do if I get the email?
Forward it to us at [email protected]
If you open the attachment, the NCCU says it would never endorse paying the ransom and there's no guarantee the fraudsters would give you the decryption key. Instead you should:
• help the NCCU find the source of the emails by reporting it at http://www.actionfraud.police.uk
• disconnect the computer from the network
• get your computer professionally cleaned.
Some anti-virus companies will offer corrective software solutions but won't restore any encrypted files.
Read more advice at getsafeonline.org.uk
Other ways to protect yourself
There are some preventative measures you can take to protect yourself.
Update your anti-virus and operating system with the latest versions
These will include any updates needed to protect you against new threats since the last time your software was installed.
Back up your files regularly
By preserving them off the network, they'll be safe if your computer does ever become infected.
I have Trusteer Rapport. Will this protect me?
Trusteer Rapport protects you against viruses that try to steal your banking log on details. This virus is different in that it doesn't steal anything but tries to hold you to ransom. As Trusteer Rapport isn't designed for this type of virus it doesn't protect you against it.
Questions
If you're unsure if an email is from us, or have any other questions about this issue, contact us on 0845 600 4388. Lines are open 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 9pm Sunday.
Yours sincerely
Santander Customer Services
We sleep safe in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm. ~~ George Orwell.