Software for Estate Agents: GameOver Zeus Virus warning

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Software for Estate Agents: GameOver Zeus Virus warning

We have two weeks to protect our computers against a powerful computer virus called “GameOver Zeus” that is being used to steal bank details and personal information from its victims.

It is said that more than 15,000 machines in the UK are already infected with the virus. The virus was created by a criminal gang based in Russia and the Ukraine; it searches for files that will then allow them to gain access into banking and financial information. The FBI believes that this virus is already responsible for £60 million in losses worldwide.

The virus doesn’t just go for bank and financial information; it also produces another malware programme, called CryptoLocker. This malware virus encrypts all files on an infected computer; this includes personal documents and photos and to unlocked the files you have to pay (around £300) within the required time limit. The FBI has said that almost 250,000 computers worldwide have been infected since it was unleashed in April, and has extorted around £16 million from its victims.

The deputy head of the NCA’s cyber-crime unit, Andy Archibald has said “Nobody wants their personal financial details, business information or photographs of loved ones to be stolen or held to ransom by criminals. By making use of this two-week window, huge numbers of people in the UK can stop that from happening.”

How to protect yourself:

AntiVirus Software

It is important that you use and maintain antivirus software. Your software should be updated regularly and turned on at all times.

Update all software

You need to ensure all software is updated (such as operating systems and applications) so that attackers can’t take advantages of the vulnerable areas within your PC.

Avoid suspicious emails

Do not open attachments from suspicious emails.

Passwords

Your passwords should not be stored on your computer. If you need to store passwords on your computer then use a good manager application such as PasswordBox.

Also you should change your existing passwords as they may already be compromised.

Back up your files

All of your files should be backed up regularly on external hardware such as a USB or an external hard drive. This will ensure your data is safe even if your computer is attacked.

Only use legitimate anti-malware tools

There is a lot of anti-malware software out that that can identify and remove malware which you should consider installing. Here is an approved list provided by the CERT-UK website.

 

You have two weeks to secure your computer, make sure your data is safe! 

Troy Stanley