‘Ransomware’ locks and holds Computers hostage!

A new computer virus can hold your system for ransom of $200 and is called rev-it-on ransomware.

The virus can compell your computer screen to freeze, and an official looking message with an FBI logo will lock the operating system demanding the victime to pay 200 dollars or you'll be arrested in 72 hours!

"We're getting inundated with complaints," said Donna Gregory of the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), referring to the virus known as Reveton ransomware, which is designed to extort money from its victims.

The bogus message goes on to say that the user's internet address was identified by the FBI or the Department of Justice's Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section as having been associated with child pornography sites or other illegal online activity. To unlock their machines, users are required to pay a fine using a prepaid money card service.

"Some people have actually paid the so-called fine," said the IC3's Gregory, who oversees a team of cyber crime subject matter experts.

What is 'Ransomeware'?

According to FBI's official site, Reveton is described as drive-by malware because unlike many viruses-which activate when users open a file or attachment-this one can install itself when users simply click on a compromised website. Once infected, the victim's computer immediately locks, and the monitor displays a screen stating there has been a violation of federal law.

The Reveton virus, used by hackers in conjunction with Citadel malware-a software delivery platform that can disseminate various kinds of computer viruses-first came to the attention of the FBI in 2011.

The IC3 issued a warning on its website in May 2012. Since that time, the virus has become more widespread in the United States and internationally. Some variants of Reveton can even turn on computer webcams and display the victim's picture on the frozen screen.

The IC3 suggests the following if you become a victim of the Reveton virus like do not pay any money or provide any personal information, contact a computer professional to remove Reveton and Citadel from your computer and file a complaint and look for updates about the Reveton virus on the IC3 website.