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CYBER SCAM WARNING

These ‘ransomware’ screens on your computer mean you’re in BIG TROUBLE – what to do if you fall victim to cybercriminals

Find out what happens when digital criminals strike - and how to protect yourself

CYBERCRIME lets crooks nab millions of pounds without leaving their bedroom - and mastering the techniques used in this shadowy underworld requires a bit more skill and intellectual prowess than nicking someone's wallet.

Now Dr Lee Hadlington, a "cyber psychologist" at De Montfort University, has published a report exploring the "psychological mechanisms" used during ransomware assaults so that Brits can protect themselves from this growing threat.

 This is the screen shown to people who were infected by the WannaCry virus
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This is the screen shown to people who were infected by the WannaCry virus
 This ransom note is designed to make people think they have to pay an official fine for copyright infringement
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This ransom note is designed to make people think they have to pay an official fine for copyright infringement
 The Petya ransomware splash screen. A variation of this malware swept the world in July 2017
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The Petya ransomware splash screen. A variation of this malware swept the world in July 2017

Ransomware has been in the news recently due to the WannaCry NHS attacks and the global spread of a piece of malware called NotPetya.

Hadlington wrote: "A better understanding of the psychological techniques used by attackers in these splash screens could provide individuals with critical information to be used as part of their decision-making process.

"This could also include relevant signposting towards further help from cyber security professionals and law enforcement, an action that attackers are keen to dissuade victims from taking."

Splash screens are typically ransom notes which tell victims they need to pay up a sum of cash in Bitcoin.

The aim of ransomware is to extort cash out of a victim, but even when they pay the dosh there is no guarantee of getting their files back.

Some of the splash screens Hadlington discovered are remarkably professional, with "frequently asked questions", guides on how to buy Bitcoin and sometimes even email addresses victims can call to get technical support.

 This splash screen provides instructions on how to pay the ransom
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This splash screen provides instructions on how to pay the ransom
 Criminals often panic victims by putting a countdown on the splash screen, suggesting action needs to be taken immediately
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Criminals often panic victims by putting a countdown on the splash screen, suggesting action needs to be taken immediately
 This splash screen is surprisingly helpful and informative
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This splash screen is surprisingly helpful and informative

They often urge people to act very quickly or risk having their sensitive files splurged online - something that could be very damaging for a business (or anyone who's got rude pics on their computer).

“We know that psychology plays a significant part in cyber crime - what’s been most interesting from this study is uncovering the various ways that key social engineering techniques are used to intimidate or influence victims”  Hadlington said in a statement.

“With ransomware on the rise, it’s important that we improve our understanding of this aspect of the attack and how language, imagery and other aspects of the initial ransom demand are used to coerce victims.”

The academic's research was carried out in conjunction with the tech firm SentinelOne.

 The people who wrote this ransom note appear almost apologetic
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The people who wrote this ransom note appear almost apologetic
 This splash screen asks: 'What the hell is happening?'
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This splash screen asks: 'What the hell is happening?'

What to do if your computer is infected by ransomware

  • First of all, take a very quick picture of the ransomware 'splash screen'.
  • Then switch your computer off immediately to avoid infecting other computers on the network.
  • Don't pay the ransom fee, because you probably won't get your files back.
  • Use antivirus software to clean your system.
  • If this doesn't work, you should restore your computer from the back-ups you sensibly make every few weeks.
  • You may have to wipe the device and start again if the infection is too grim.
  • Make sure your system is updated with the latest software patches in order to stave off further attacks.

“Although ransomware has leapt to the top of the public’s consciousness following recent attacks, what’s been less well documented is exactly how the criminals are manipulating their targets into paying up,” said Tony Rowan, chief security consultant at SentinelOne.

“This report sheds light on the most common tactics used, with the aim that, through awareness, we are better placed to advise individuals and businesses how not to be duped by these criminals’ claims.”

Tech experts recently sounded the alarm about ransomware called LeakerLocker which can send your rudest and most embarrassing private photos to ALL your friends.


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