I didn't see a security news section here like one over at seven so I'll post this here.
Beware of this new scam...
Source: 'Ransomware' tricks victims into paying hefty fines - Red Tape
Beware of this new scam...
Computer users around the globe are being hit by a new kind of virus that freezes their computer and accuses them of committing heinous crimes, like distributing child porn. The threats sound real enough that victims are coughing up $200 to pay a "fine," and virus writer gangs are netting millions, security firms say.
The message that flashes across infected computer screens sounds downright scary:
"You have been viewing or distributing child porn ... violating article 202 of the Criminal Code of the United States of America," says one version, allegedly sent by the FBI. A virus victim supplied the message to NBC news.
Victims shouldn't pay the fine, Harrison said, but they should know that various software tools — including free tools available at Symantec — can rid their machines of the virus.
Source: 'Ransomware' tricks victims into paying hefty fines - Red Tape