It’s scary to think you can be simply browsing the Internet when WHAM! a screen pops up out of nowhere claiming that you have been hijacked and will need to pay a bitcoin to free your computer. Unfortunately, ransomware like this is not uncommon. But now there’s a new, more devastating virus that asks victims to pick other victims to replace them in order to get their computer information back safely. Read on to find out how Popcorn Time is turning the ransom game on its head — and how you can protect yourself from it.
Ransomware is nothing new. Cybersecurity miscreants have been taking advantage of online users for years by requiring payment to “unlock” a victim’s computer. What Popcorn Time does differently is giving users the option to spread the virus to two other victims in the hopes that they will pay the ransom — a tactic that promises to double their money at the expense of your sense of morality (and at the expense of your friendships as well).
The Cost of Popcorn
When you inadvertently download this ransomware, you will be met with a screen that explains that your files have beenhijacked/encrypted, and that to get them back you will need to pay one Bitcoin for a decryption key that they keep stored remotely. The Bitcoin fee is usually more than $700, a hefty price to pay during any season but particularly difficult for those infected during the holiday season.
Spread the “Holiday Cheer” and Hope they Bite
What makes Popcorn Time unique is the option victims have to take their cost away by allowing the ransomware to affect two of their friends for a chance to get a free decryption code. Of course, it works only if both friends pay the ransom, which leaves you looking (and feeling) like the Grinch.
Avoiding Popcorn Time this Season
The easiest way to avoid downloading ransomware is to stay off of sites that might contain questionable files. However, this is nearly impossible for modern users, and many hackers are getting good at making their files look legitimate. Limit your exposure to potential ransomware by keeping your software up-to-date and your computer protected with a security program from a reputable company (for example Norton or Symantec). If you need to learn more about how to avoid running into ransomware while you’re online, give our professional cybersecurity consultants a call. We’ll keep you away from the popcorn this season.
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The Growing Threat of Ransomware and the Need for Managed Security Services in Raleigh
Ransomware attacks are becoming more sophisticated, with new tactics like the “Popcorn Time” virus that demand victims sacrifice others to recover their files. This highlights the importance of having managed security services in place to protect against such threats and ensure the safety of your valuable data.
With hackers getting better at disguising their malicious files and finding new ways to trick users into downloading them, it’s crucial for businesses in Raleigh to invest in proactive cybersecurity measures. Managed security services can help you stay one step ahead of cyber threats and minimize the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks.
Fortifying Your Print Security: An Essential Step in Protecting Your Business
While many businesses focus on securing their digital data, it’s important not to overlook the potential vulnerabilities in your print environment. Printers and copiers can be a gateway for hackers to access sensitive information, making it essential to fortify your print security measures to prevent unauthorized access and protect your confidential data.
By implementing security protocols such as user authentication, encryption, and regular software updates, you can enhance the security of your print infrastructure and reduce the risk of data breaches. Taking proactive steps to fortify your print security will help safeguard your business against cyber threats and ensure the integrity of your information.
The Growing Threat of Ransomware and the Need for Managed Security Services in Raleigh
Ransomware attacks are becoming more sophisticated, with new tactics like the “Popcorn Time” virus that demand victims sacrifice others to recover their files. This highlights the importance of having managed security services in place to protect against such threats and ensure the safety of your valuable data.
With hackers getting better at disguising their malicious files and finding new ways to trick users into downloading them, it’s crucial for businesses in Raleigh to invest in proactive cybersecurity measures. Managed security services can help you stay one step ahead of cyber threats and minimize the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks.
Fortifying Your Print Security: An Essential Step in Protecting Your Business
While many businesses focus on securing their digital data, it’s important not to overlook the potential vulnerabilities in your print environment. Printers and copiers can be a gateway for hackers to access sensitive information, making it essential to fortify your print security measures to prevent unauthorized access and protect your confidential data.
By implementing security protocols such as user authentication, encryption, and regular software updates, you can enhance the security of your print infrastructure and reduce the risk of data breaches. Taking proactive steps to fortify your print security will help safeguard your business against cyber threats and ensure the integrity of your information.
