From the Greek police website :
GREEK POLICE HEADQUARTERS
Athens, October 9, 2014
PRESS RELEASE
The Cybercrime Prosecution Directorate informs citizens about the appearance in our country of the malicious software "Crypto-Wall"
The malware aims to demand the payment of sums of money as a "ransom" in order to unlock - decrypt digital files and data on users' computers
Crypto-Malware can affect all operating system versions and is spread primarily through infected emails
The Hellenic Police's Cybercrime Directorate informs citizens about the appearance in our country of the malicious software "Crypto-Wall".
This specific software, which is an evolution of the well-known malware "Cryptolocker", is among the Crypto-Malware type of digital threats, and can affect all operating system versions.
Specifically, the malware spreads when we visit unsafe or infected websites, appearing as a supposedly legitimate update for popular applications. However, in most cases, “CryptoWall” spreads through infected emails.
More specifically, after being installed on the operating system, this malicious software, using a sophisticated encryption system, encrypts - locks all digital files and data (various file types, including: *.doc, *.docx, *.xls, *.ppt, *.psd, *.pdf, *.eps, *.ai, *.cdr, *.jpg, etc.) that are stored on the infected user's computer, while in order to unlock the files, a ransom must be paid, otherwise they become inaccessible to the user.
The payment of the amount of money is made through an anonymous browser, using the digital currency bitcoin (BTC), following a message displayed to the user, with instructions and instructions for payment.
Internet users are urged not to pay the money requested, in order to discourage such illegal practices and to prevent the phenomenon from spreading, while they should be particularly careful and take digital protection and security measures to avoid being infected by malicious software.
Specifically:
- Citizens who receive emails from unknown senders or of unknown origin are urged not to open links or download attachments contained therein, for which they do not know with certainty the sender and the content of the attached file. In addition, users should be extremely suspicious of emails that appear to be sent by a service or company.
- It is recommended to type in web page addresses (URLs) into the browser, instead of using hyperlinks,
- genuine software programs should be used and updated regularly, while there should always be an updated PC protection program (antivirus).
- to check and always keep their operating system version updated,
- to create backup copies of their device files at regular intervals, to an external storage medium, so that in the event of an "attack" by malicious software, it is possible to restore their files.
It is recalled that for similar incidents or for clarifications and advice, citizens can contact the Cybercrime Prosecution Directorate at the following contact details:
- By phone: 210-6476464
- By sending an e-mail to: ccu@cybercrimeunit.gov.gr
