Cyber Criminals have managed to infect more than 1,100 computers with Ransomware to extort money from unsuspecting members of the public by impersonating the Met’s Police Central e-Crime Unit (PCeU).
According to press release, Police have received 1,100 reports from the public of the malware affecting their computers. 36 people in the UK have paid money, each losing £100.
The ransomware infects PCs after people accessed infected websites, and caused the PCs to freeze and lock, with a message purporting to be from the e-crime Unit advising the user they are required to pay a fine to unlock the computer.
"This is a fraud and users are advised NOT to pay out any monies or hand out any bank details. "Police representatives said. "This scam is now affecting many countries in Europe and further afield, with each email tailored to include the branding of that country's law enforcement agency. Europol are coordinating with Europe's law enforcement agencies on this matter."
Users are advised to install Internet Security software. You can also use Comodo IceDragon browser that will block malicious domains.
