Fake ransomware is a growing threat. Further, it is a threat we have seen our own clients encounter. Fake ransomware plays on the fear of ransomware attack to elicit knee-jerk reactions. It also takes far less expertise to pull off. Oftentimes the criminals simply employ a well-engineered pop-up.

What a user does after receiving the threat is crucial, as one could easily play into the attacker’s hands. If you receive a ransomware notification, stay calm and call whomever handles your IT.

Threats fake ransomware poses:

• • • Direct expense. Even if the attacker’s asking price is moderate, paying the ransom equates to throwing your money away.
    • Later attacks. Clicking through links on the pop-up may trigger the download of other malware such as keystroke loggers. These malware downloads could enable the criminal to perform further attacks by stealing credentials or confidential information.
      

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