Ransomware

IT News has a great article at http://www.itnews.com/malware/73087/how-rescue-your-pc-ransomware?source=ITNEWSNLE_nlt_itndaily_2014-01-13  about how to protect your PC from ransomware.  Ransomware encrypts the computer files and demands that the owner pay to get the files unencrypted.  Cryptolocker is the culprit of the "real" ransomware.  The software displays a request for ransom; however, the developers take your money and run. Eric Geier wrote the article.  It is work reading.  He recommends that we read an article that he previously wrote on removing malware - at http://www.pcworld.com/article/243818/how_to_remove_malware_from_your_windows_pc.html?page=0

The article classifies ransomware into three main types: scareware, lock-screen viruses, and the "real thing."
Scareware is the simplest software.  A pop-up message provides a fake message that you have a virus and demands that you pay to have the virus removed.  Lock-screen viruses have a pop-up window that prevents you from using your computer.  According to Geier, it displays a Department of Justice or FBI logo stating that  you have broken the law.  Cryptolocker malware is nasty.  Make sure that you have a virus protector, such as Malwarebytes. working. 

The bottom line is to keep your antivirus and anti-malware software up-to-date.  Configure the software to run a system scan periodically.  If you do get ransomware, contact a computer guru to guide you in the removal process.