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Released: April 26, 2013
‘Ransomware’ tricks victims into paying hefty fines
Source: Bob Sullivan, NBC News (MSNBC.com) (Free Registration)
Computer users around the globe are being hit by a new kind of virus that freezes their computer and accuses them of committing heinous crimes, like distributing child porn. The threats sound real enough that victims are coughing up $200 to pay a "fine," and virus writer gangs are netting millions, security firms say.
The message that flashes across infected computer screens sounds downright scary:
"You have been viewing or distributing child porn ... violating article 202 of the Criminal Code of the United States of America," says one version, allegedly sent by the FBI. A virus victim supplied the message to NBC News.
Read Full Article: ‘Ransomware’ tricks victims into paying hefty fines
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