There’s a warning about a harmful virus currently being circulated in legitimate looking emails.
You are advised NOT TO CLICK ON ANY LINKs from unknown senders and beware of all links.
The CSU Division of Information Technology has the following tips to avoid opening a virus:
Beware of links in emails
If you see a link in an email message, don’t click on it. Rest your mouse (hover, but don’t click) on the link to see if the address matches the link that was typed in the message.
In the example shown on the Microsoft site here, the link in the box reveals the real web address with the yellow background.
The string of cryptic numbers looks nothing like the company’s real web address.
Links might also lead you to .exe files
These kinds of files are known to spread malicious software or malware.
Wannacrypt is a particularly nasty type of malware called Ransomware. It essentially encrypts your files stored on local/network drives and offers to decrypt the data for a price. If the deadline is not met, they threaten to delete the key to the encrypted files or auction the data to the highest bidder.
How to know if you’re infected
Due to their malicious nature, wannacrypt/wannacry worm/cryptoware/Wanna Decryptor have multiple names and types so there is no one way to pinpoint if you’ve been infected.
We recommend regular virus scanning of your computer, however this infection may not always be detected. If an infection is detected via a virus scan, or you notice any of the following common signs, treat this as though you are infected.
Some common signs that there is in infection
- When opening a file, a pop up error message referring to wannacrypt, encrypted, locked, or similiar indicates an infection
- When trying to access a file it takes you to a webpage stating you need to pay for your files
What should I do if I am infected?
If you’re showing signs that you’re infected, turn off your PC IMMEDIATELY and contact Student Central.
NOTE: If you detect an infection on a non CSU machine on a CSU campus, please turn your PC off and contact Student Central to assist.
It’s very IMPORTANT to ensure you have a back-up of your data. If you save files to your C or D drive you need to have a copy of your data on an external device.
Contact Student Central for assistance with any IT services.
