WannaCry” computer virus

A new computer ransomware “ WannaCry” attack has banged the computer screens in number of countries.

It looks, on 12 May 2017 , a stunning message emerged on millions of world-wide computer screens asking for ransoms of up to $300 in form of bitcoins from users saying your files are encrypted and ransom will double in 3 days if not be paid otherwise your files may be deleted. “WannaCry” impacted over 200,000 systems across 150 countries. Software giant Microsoft went scrambling to release computer patches and restore systems amid fears that a global malware attack could wreak a new round of havoc as businesses reopened on Monday morning.

Some general guidelines to stay safe from such attacks;

  • Be careful not to click on harmful links in your emails.
  • Be wary of visiting unsafe or unreliable sites.
  • Never click on a link that you do not trust on a web page or access to Facebook or messaging applications such as WhatsApp.
  • If you receive a suspicious message from your friend with a link, ask him before opening the link to confirm, (infected machines send random messages with links).
  • Keep your files backed up regularly and periodically.
  • Be aware of fraudulent e-mail messages that use names similar to popular services such as “PayePal” instead of “PayPal” or use popular service names without commas or excessive characters.
  • Use antivirus and always make sure you have the latest updates.
  • Make sure your windows operating system is always patched and has latest updates.
Saleem Zaidi

Saleem Zaidi

IT Expert