Ransomware is a type of malicious software that blocks access to a computer system or files. 

How does it work?

The victim clicks on an infected advertisement, pop-up, email attachment, or visits an infected website.  Once the computer has been infected, the victim’s files become encrypted and a message pops up telling them to pay a fee.  After the fee is paid the encryption is released and they can regain access to their files.

Tips to protect against this scam

• Always use up-to-date antivirus software on your computer.
• Enable pop-up blockers on your computer.
• Always back up your computer. If you back up copies of your data, you can simply have your system wiped clean and reload your files.
• Don’t click on any email or attachments you don’t recognize.
• If this happens to you, shut down your computer right away and disconnect from the internet then take your computer to a professional to clean the system out.