Skype Ransomware Worm Spreading Fast, Says Trend Micro

[Johmama]

[citation][nom]chicofehr[/nom]As a computer tech, I can honestly say people can be pretty stupid and on purpose too. I install Kaspersky Internet Security on many computers and I get many of them back with viruses. Why is that? Skype Friend: Hey buddy, I got an awesome movie for you to watch. It's 1080P full length movie!!!!Skype User: Wow a movie!!!!! I will download the link........ virus.exe 266KBSecurity Software: File blocked for containing a virus!!!!!!Skype User: Hey my friend sent me a video and I want it!!!!!! I'll disable my security software for 5 minutes so I can download the movie because I can trust anything from my friends Security Software: Are you sure you want to disable your security software?Skype User: Yes, YES YES!!!!!! I can trust my friends!!!!! STUPID SECURITY PROGRAM!!!!!......What is happening?!??!?!!?!!?! My computer just froze!!!!! WHAT!!! IT says I need to pay $70.00 for a program to remove a virus from computer!!!! OK my Credit card # is 55555-5555-5555-5-55 there now I'm OK This is the typical computer user I find. I wish our schools would educate kids about internet safety[/citation]

At that point, it isn't even Internet safety anymore; it's common sense. And I agree with you. I know some people that are really smart and know a lot of stuff, but put them in front of a computer and they don't know the basics such as how to open some files or locate some program (even with the Search bar in the Start menu that's in Windows 7). I know they could learn, but they think it's way too complicated and a waste of time.

 

[snowzsan]

As much as I disagree with what they're doing, I do have to admit that it's a clever way to go about it. At least they're involved in their exploit instead of just dumping some poorly coded virus on the net and watching the fireworks for a week. This is hands on, and it's nice to finally see some hackers putting an effort and giving protection companies a run for their money.

Though $200 is a little steep. I'm guessing the bad economy is hitting them as well? lol

 

[ayrborne]

I was hit by a variant of this yesterday while using StumbleUpon in Firefox. I'm not even sure what site was hosting the attack since I didn't even download a file. Norton failed to stop it. It took a combo of sifting through my registry, file deletions, and running SpyBot in safe mode to regain full use. I may just end up doing a fresh OS install just to feel safe

 

[Justin979271]

Yep, I got this from a few friends of mine. I was being stupid while talking to another and I subconsciously clicked on the link since I was too focused on another conversation I was having with a friend. Luckily Avast picked it up right away. Phew. I need to pay more attention.