This group is also responsible for generating a strain of malware called Gameover Zeus. This malware is thought to have affected half a million Microsoft users, but security agents working in a number of law enforcement agencies across the world, were able to obtain a copy of the hackers’ database of victims and get a glimpse into how their operation functions. Thankfully, Windows users can breathe a collective sigh of relief knowing that security experts have devised a way for victims of CryptoLocker to access a free key to restore their files. There is no guarantee, however, that once the hacker has been paid, the key will be provided, and the ransom can be as high as £237. Using public-key cryptography, the ransomer holds the private key to unlock the files which it will provide the victim once the ransom has been forked over. CryptoLocker is one such version of the malware that uses infected emails and botnets to infiltrate Microsoft Windows and encrypt files stored on the computer’s local or mounted network. The files will then stay locked and reman inaccessible for the owner until a ransom has been paid either in a cash voucher or in Bitcoins. The name comes from the virus’s ability to infect a computer system and either encrypt or lock its files. Ransomware is the latest, and quite possibly the most devious type of malware developed in recent memory.

Crypto locker on machine