Cryptolocker is the next big threat

The newest threat is very, very bad.   Cryptolocker has no real fix, here is what wikipedia has to say, 

When CryptoLocker infects a computer it encrypts in place files on the target computer and then displays and ransom message demanding payment within a certain amount of time. Unlike many other strains of ransomware, CryptoLocker is well done and does exactly as it says. The files are securely encrypted and the decryption key is never on the host machine and so can never be decrypted unless the ransom is paid. The files are reliably unencrypted upon payment and the countdown is real, payment can not be made after it expires. There are several different variants, each with a different ransom amount (either 100 or 300 USD) and countdown times (100 or 72 hours).

Removing the virus does not restore the encrypted files and may make it more difficult to pay the random. Most anti-virus software does not catch it until it is to late and the encryption is fully or partially complete.

Wikipedia 

If that was not depressing enough, check out Microsoft's response, 

Trojan:Win32/Crilock.A

That's right, restore from back up is the only option, IF the back up is not corrupted, or pay the ransom and hope that you get it restored.  If you get the infection, or happen to know someone who may have it, please contact me, I would be happy to see if there is anything that I can do. 

My Favorite Malware and Toolbar Cleaner

There have been a lot of different Malware and Toolbar Cleaners, but by far the one that I find the most effective as of late is AdwCleaner. This write up pretty much sums it up for for me, 

"Many antivirus programs and uninstaller programs can handle browser toolbars and other crapware, but sometimes, even they can't uninstall all the pieces. Heck, sometimes you aren't even sure what you're looking for. AdwCleaner is a portable program that finds every last bit of crapware on your system for you, with just one click."

From Lifehacker

I strongly suggest that you check out AdwCleaner, but remember that once it gets this easy to remove Malware and Toolbars, you may no longer think that they no no longer a issue.  Check out the download site here, 

AdwCleaner

Is your web cam taking pictures when you do not want it too?

I am not usually the paranoid one when it comes to invasion of privacy via or on the internet, I am of the mind that privacy in this zone was compromised from day one.   Even so I am concerned by the increasing frequency of hacks and compromises concerning web cams and mobile cams.  

Most recently this hack appeared, 

Smile! Hackers Can Silently Access Your Webcam Right Through The Browser (Again)

Even though it is reported to have been fixed,  I am more concerned of its existence in the first place.

Further to this you have the Arron's Computer Rental spyware, 

How spyware on rental PCs captured users’ most intimate moments

and the FBI in this case, 

FBI denied permission to spy on hacker through his webcam

These instances have prompted me to to even more vigilant when it comes to who can access my computer and why, and has even made me think about taping up my web cam.  What are you thoughts?

Do you really need a Full Internet Security Suite?

There is a lot of discussion on internet security and the requirement for additional security software.  I am a believer that there are some very good free tools that can address all of your security needs.  Attached is an excellent article on if you need a Full Internet Security Suite.   Please let me know you comments.

HTG Explains: Why You Don’t Need a Full Internet Security Suite

Why are computer Viruses called Viruses?

There are a lot of malicious things that can be done to your computer, unfortunately one of the worst is a virus.  There are many other types of malware, such as computer worms, ransomware, trojan horses, keyloggers, rootkits, and spyware, but a virus typically has a moderate to severe impact.

Why are computer viruses called viruses? Simple, just like viruses infecting biological organisms, these programs replicate, thus leading to them being called viruses.  There are many other types of malware out there, but in order for a virus to be a virus, it has to replicate.

This results in the virus having a benign effect on the device or computer, and in other cases a catastrophic effect on the device or computer.   More often than not, because a computer virus is created by human beings, there is a malicious intent behind their creation and distribution.

In addition due to the inherent nature of a virus replicating, these types of malware spread quickly.  The worst, and most publicised computer malware infections are viruses.

The obvious question is, "How do you stop computer viruses?", simple anti-virus software.  Well the answer is not always that simple.

Because of the malicious intent behind viruses,  the virus programmers / designers adapt their programs to avoid detection by anti virus programs.   Just like biological viruses,  teams of people work to prevent the virus propagating by updating anti virus programs, quarantining infected computers, and tracking infections.

Sometimes your computer can get infected even though you have anti virus software, this is when you should find a professional, such as Collaboration Lab, to help remove the infection.   You best bet is to avoid the infection by using common sense, 

1) Use a reputable antivirus program, I suggest Microsoft Security Essentials.

2) Ensure that you update your computer operating system software, programs, and anti virus software.  Updates on most anti virus programs come out twice a day and usually update automatically.

3) Use common sense.  If you go to a possibly disreputable website and it asks you to download software, do not do it.  If someone you "might" know sends you a file, used caution.   If there is a link to expensive software or free items, think twice about clicking it. When in doubt, don't do it.