It has been brought to our attention a malicious email which claims to be Microsoft is being sent to users globally.
The email urges people to update their operating systems (like Windows 10).
If you receive an email like this please do not click on any link as this may cause a whole manor of issues.
Whether you are a client of Syn-Star, or require our support on an ad-hoc basis, our technicians are the best experts to inform so preventative measures may be made to block it.
Anti-spam software works very well – although some emails to occasionally slip through the net. Please be extra vigilant and make those around you aware of this threat.
You may have already received a fake notice which states: “Install Latest Microsoft Update Now†or “Critical Microsoft Windows Update!â€
Do not follow the instructions within the body of this email asking you to “install the latest critical update from Microsoft attached to this mailâ€.
Do not click on anything and delete the email immediately.
If you do so, the file is a ransomware called Cyborg. This will encrypt all your files, lock their contents and change their extensions.
As is typical of ransomware, you’ll also be delivered a file name, “Cyborg_DECRYPT.txt,†which contains instructions on how you can recover your files – if you pay the cybercriminal.
Never do this; there is no guarantee even if you pay for what they claim to need, the cybercriminals will release your computer.
Trustware, which discovered the ransomware, says four variants are currently circulating, spawned from somewhere in Russia, so you should be on the lookout for variations to the email notice, including those attached to other emails.
Keep in mind that it’s always a best practice to be very cautious about unknown mails you receive, and even those “apparently†from people you know.
Never click on enclosed files in email unless you’re 100% sure of its source (which means: you need to make a separate effort to check it).
If you have any questions, or believe you may have already clicked the mentioned link please contact us anytime via our website here.
