Ransomware attacks are targeting users by sending a fraudulent Microsoft alert their way…
SC Magazine reported a new ransomware variant was recently discovered. The malware is disguised as a Microsoft alert stating the user’s Windows license has expired and to remediate the issue, users need to unlock their PC. It was not reported if the computer is then locked on this screen until the victim calls, or if they’re able to remediate the issue after the alert populates.
Some of you may be feeling a sense of deja vu reading this. Recently, we reported on a tech support scam that sounded pretty similar to this. The primary difference between the two, is the tech support scam sent an update request to the user, which required action for the scam to occur. Once the user clicked update, the PC would start the “updating” process. Once the process was “finished” they’d then get an alert stating the license has expired and the user needs to call for assistance.
Ransomware has become a lucrative business. Therefore, it is not believed these cyber criminals will give up anytime soon. While the ransomware war rages on, PC Matic encourages all users to keep their operating systems, security software and applications up-to-date.
To check for system updates, you can go to: Settings>Windows Updates>Check for Updates.
