Computer Ransom Virus Strikes Local Resident

Glendora Police detectives say a local businessman has become a victim of a new trend of computer malware scams.

Police received a report from a resident claiming that he received an email from what he thought was from his bank. But when he clicked on the zip file attachment, a malware virus encrypted his files, rendering them useless, according to a police statement.

Two windows then appeared, one with the title “Crypto Locker,” demanding that he pay $300 via a pre-paid money card and he will receive a key to unlock his files. If he did not pay the money, he would no longer be able to retrieve his computer documents and other files.

According to a police investigation, the origin of the email and the account asking for the ransom came from overseas. Police say there is no guarantee that the files would be retrieved once the ransom is paid.

“These types of sophisticated crimes are becoming more prevalent and it is my hope that by informing the public we can reduce the chances of our community members falling victim to these types of cyber-crimes being perpetrated from across the world,” said Chief of Police Rob Castro in a statement.

Glendora Police offered these tips for computer users to avoid becoming victims of this latest computer scam.

1.     Don’t click on anything unless you know what it is and who it is from.  In the case of Crypto Locker, it disguises itself as a legitimate source such as the US Postal Service, your local bank, etc.  If you are not expecting anything from these sources, don’t open the email.

2.     If you get an email from anyone with an attachment, do not open it unless you trust the sender.

3.     Don’t click on links that seem too good to be true, such as “How to Make Money” or “How to Speed up your Computer,” etc.

4.     Don’t trust cold calls. Do not give your information to anyone who calls you.  If they say that they are from tech support and have found a virus on your computer, it could be a scam.  If you give them access, they will control your computer remotely and use your personal information to open new charge accounts or charge on your existing accounts.  If the caller claims there is a security threat to your computer, hang up and call your computer company directly.