There is a massive malware/ransomware attack sweeping across the internet today. (Mostly hitting Europe, but there are some US reports)

Ransomware is an attack that encrypts (locks) all the files on a computer and requires a payment to regain access to them. Or forced to restore from a backup.

The attack takes advantage of a Windows vulnerability that was patched and an update released through Windows Updates back in March.

• Do not open emails from any unknown sources, and question any links or attachments from known sources. (THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP)
• Make sure your computer has proper anti-virus and that it is up to date
• Make sure your computer is up to date with Microsoft Windows updates

If you want to learn more, simply go to google and do a search for ‘wannacry’. All the top hits are for this story that is breaking today (5/12/2017).

If you have any questions or need assistance with making sure your system is properly patched, please call.

I’m putting this info out there for everyone as a reminder that Microsoft (or any hardware/software vendor) will never call you about your computer system.

If you receive a phone call from someone saying there is an issue with your computer and they need to access it in order to fix it, simply hang up, or ask for their telephone number and advise them you will call them back. They will be persistent and say you need to do it now, but don’t fall for it.

• Do not give them access to your computer
• Do not give any personal information about yourself
• Do not give them your credit card information

If you have any concerns or you have ever given one of these ‘techs’ access to your computer, please call us right away.
(262) 324-1126

Further reading direct from Microsoft:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/safety/online-privacy/avoid-phone-scams.aspx