Computer Criminals Holding Your Computer Hostage
February 7, 2010
Reported by Jackie Morlock
“You download it and I infect your computer,” that's how easy it is for criminals to take your computer hostage without you evening knowing it, explained Don Lattimer, Owner of Computer Edge in Casper.
“Rogueware” programs have been around for years, but in recent months cases of people falling for these scams have soared, according to FBI officials.
“Basically what it does is you go on the internet or they send you an e-mail and you'll click to find out more. At that point, it will automatically install on your computer,” Shawn Pike, Manager at Best Buy described.
“There's two problems with this software. One, it's going to shutdown everything on your computer and make it unusable for you until you pay,” said Lattimer.
This is how it works. A message will pop up on your computer screen alerting you of viruses on your computer. Once you download that software the criminal will take control of your computer and try to extort payment from you when, in fact, it's just a trick.
“[It] gives the user a false sense of security. They think they're protected,” said Lattimer.
These highly skilled computer criminals make a pretty good living taking you for all you've got.
“It's a 1 billion dollar a year business,” said Lattimer.
“We see several cases a day where someone has downloaded Rogueware software,” Pike told News 13.
So, how can you protect yourself? It's pretty simple actually. Be smart about where you go, what you do and what you download online.
“Don't open e-mails from people you don't know,” Lattimer explained.
“Verify the software that you're downloading. One of the really great sites is Cnet.com,” Pike continued.
Check valid software programs here: http://www.cnet.com/
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