Posted: Sunday, November 3, 2013 6:36 pm
Daily Toreador – Dept. of Student Media, Texas Tech University
United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team and other Security Alert Monitoring Services have reported two internet-based scams.
Cyber criminals are using Cryptolocker Ransomeware and fake phone calls from “IT Support” to bait victims into installing malware, according to TechAnnounce.
Cryptolocker Ransomware is usually distributed through a targeted phishing email with an malware attachment.
The malware encrypts files on the computer and victims receive messages demanding payment, usually from $100 to $300, within 100 hours to decrypt the files, according to TechAnnounce.
Some email subject lines used are “Payroll Received by Intuit,” “ADP RUN: Payroll Processed Alert,” “Payroll Manager Payroll Invoice ADP RUN,” “Payroll Processed Alert Annual form ACH Notification,” “Annual Form – Authorization to Use Privately Owned Vehicle on State Business” and “Voice Message from Unknown Caller.”
Tech networks and email servers are blocking the known sources of the emails, but the IT Division encourages students to exercise caution before opening unexpected emails, according to TechAnnounce.
The other scam uses phone calls claiming to be “IT Support.” Some claim to work for a well-known software or technology company and claim the victim’s computer is infected, at risk of infection, or is displaying suspicious behavior.
The caller then claims the problem can be fixed by installing software, according to TechAnnounce.
IT Division suggests students hang up if they receive a call of this nature and report the fraud to the company the caller claims to represent.
IT Help Central encourages students to contact them at 806-742-4357 for questions or further assistance.
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