Windows users – Make sure you have this patch installed

You have probably (hopefully) heard a lot about the latest version of the WannaCry ransomeware that I do mean the whole world.  Happily, there is a pretty easy way to avoid the problem.  This ransomware takes advantage of a specific vulnerability in Windows.  And, there is a fix available.  Our friends at SolarWinds have helped provide direct links to Microsofts website and the installer for the fix.

If you have yet to install the Microsoft fix—MS17-010— you should do so immediately. You should also be extremely suspicious of all e-mails you receive, particularly those that ask the recipient to open attached documents or click on Web links.

DetailsOn May 12, 2017 a new strain of the Ransom.CryptXXX (WannaCry) strain of ransomware began spreading widely impacting a large number of organizations, particularly in Europe.

Wcry is demanding a ransom of $300 to $600 in Bitcoin to be paid by May 15, or, in the event that deadline is missed, a higher fee by May 19. The messages left on the screen say files will remain encrypted. It’s not yet clear if there are flaws in the encryption scheme that might allow the victims to restore the files without paying the ransom.

More ways to avoid ransomware of all types:

• Run the latest anti-virus and anti-malware software – Detect ransomware before it installs
• Don’t open unknown attachments or click links to sites you are unfamiliar with (hover over links to preview the target) – These are the main ways that ransomware gets on your computer
• Backup your computer regularly – Keeping a backup of your computer means that even if you get hit with ransomware, it won’t matter because you can always use your backup