Police issue warning on new 'ransom malware' virus infecting computers
The Metropolitan Police have issued an urgent warning about a particularly unpleasant virus that is in circulation. Purporting to come from a legitimate law enforcement agency it locks the infected computer and requests the user to pay a fine to gain access to their computer again.
The "malware" infects personal computers after users have accessed certain websites. *(It should be noted that there are several similar designs currently in circulation)
This is a fraud and users are advised NOT to pay out any monies or hand out any bank details.
bcs
Contact: 01522 705130
Valid until: Saturday, June 29 2013
The police have made it absolutely clear that they would never contact members of the public in this way and certainly not demand payment of fines in such a manner.
They advised "We would advise anyone who has been deceived by such a message and parted with any money to report the offence to their local police by dialling "101" or your local police. Virus/Malware infections where no money has been lost can be logged at www.actionfraud.org.uk/report_fraud."
Richard Davies, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner Candidate for Lincolnshire commented "This type of crime is particularly underhand, preying on people's fears. It has already netted tens for thousands of pounds for the crooks behind the scam."
Mr Davies would be interested to hear from any Lincolnshire residents who have been affected by cyber crime. Contact him at www.votedavies.co.uk or call 01400 251 533
Sound computer safety advice can be found at www.getsafeonline.org
--
Richard Davies
Conservative Candidate for Lincolnsire Police& Crime Commissioner
e. richard@votedavies.co.uk
t. 01400 251 533
Comments
by West_Lindsey
Tuesday, September 04 2012, 6:01PM
“This would be a good problem for a new Police Commissioner to look into. Do you know any candidates apart from yourself ?”
by Ian_Heighton
Tuesday, September 04 2012, 5:28PM
“I've heard of a malware that says it's done a free virus scan and found an infection and wants you to pay for the full version of the virus removal tool to remove it.
It's essential that all PC users have a good anti-virus program installed and regularly updated.”
by RG_Davies
Monday, September 03 2012, 9:59PM
“Evening Gnome_Chomsky,
It was a new one on me and I've spoken to a lady today who's fallen foul of it.
It's not my screen shot - honest!
The other big problem is the 'Microsoft' telephone support calls - a real menace!
Rd”
by Gnome_Chomsky
Monday, September 03 2012, 9:54PM
“I'm sure I've read something similar elsewhere.
Perhaps your computer has been infected by a nasty virus. Have you been looking at those (ahem) 'Masonic' websites again?”