IT professionals are seeing a troubling increase in cases of Scareware and Ransomware.

Scareware usually manifests as a pop-up window that tries to trick users into thinking that their computer is infected or damaged, sometimes masquerading as antivirus software. The window will require the user to either call a number or download software to address the problem. In either case, the user will be asked for payment information and/or will be asked to install some form of malicious software — possibly even ransomware. Sometimes clicking "OK" on the initial pop-up is enough to initiate downloading malware.

In the event of a scareware pop-up at work, contact APS IT at x9700 immediately and we will address the issue.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that prevents or limits users from accessing their computer, applications, or files — usually by locking the screen or heavily encrypting files. The user is then presented with a "ransom note" that offers to restore access for a sum of money. However, there is no guarantee that the user will actually be granted access again.

The only guaranteed recourse to recover from ransomware is to restore the computer from backup. Again, we cannot stress the importance of regular good backups enough.

How can you avoid these malicious attacks? Once again, proper computer usage practices apply:
1. Make sure you backup regularly.
2. Make sure you recognize an email's sender before clicking or opening anything. Even then, think before you click.
3. When browsing the Internet, make sure to double check link addresses by hovering over them or checking for typos.
4. Keep your security software, web browsers, and operating systems up to date.