On May 12, 2017 a new strain of the Ransom.CryptXXX (WannaCry) strain of ransomware began spreading widely impacting a large number of organizations, particularly in Europe. This virus specifically targets Microsoft Windows computers.
A hacking tool known as Eternal Blue, developed by US CIA has been enhanced by the hackers to super-charge an existing form of ransomware known as WannaCry, three senior cyber security analysts said.
Wcry is demanding a ransom of $300 to $600 in Bitcoin to be paid by May 15, or, in the event that deadline is missed, a higher fee by May 19. The messages left on the screen say files will remain encrypted. It’s not yet clear if there are flaws in the encryption scheme that might allow the victims to restore the files without paying the ransom.
If you have yet to install the Microsoft fix—MS17-010— you should do so immediately. You should also be extremely suspicious of all e-mails you receive, particularly those that ask the recipient to open attached documents or click on Web links.
If you are an existing client of ours on our Managed Services Platform, you would have already received the fix through your weekly patching cycle, If not please check with your IT and or Security provider to ensure you are covered
Read Reuters Article : http://www.reuters.com/article/us-britain-security-hospitals-idUSKBN18820S
Hiring an IT Company? Make Sure You Ask These 25 Essential Questions!
Selecting a company to maintain your technology is one of the most important decisions you can make for your business. You must find the most competent and reliable IT support provider in your area. How do you know if the IT company you’re considering is right...
From Unaware Interns To Evil Executives: How To Say Sayonara With Skill
It’s never easy to terminate an employee. The skill of firing with flair is a sensitive but necessary process that everyone should learn! It happens to the best of us. We post an advertisement for an available position on job boards across the Internet. We scour...
My IT is Compliant, So I Guess That Means It’s Secure, Right?
Short answer? No. Despite what you may have been led to believe, there’s a big difference between compliance and security. IT compliance and security are not the same. IT Security refers to the best practices and IT solutions used to protect your technology...