Ransomware

Ransomware is a form of malicious software. The software takes over your computer, threatens you with harm, usually by denying you access to your data. The attacker demands a ransom from the victim with the promise to restore access to the data upon payment.

There are various vectors that ransomware can take to access a computer. One of the most common delivery systems is phishing. The attachments come to the victim in an email, masquerading or as a file they should trust. Once the file has been downloaded and opened they can take over the victim's computer. More aggressive forms of ransomware, like NotPetya, exploit security holes to infect computers without needing to trick users.

Ransomware targets home users, businesses and government agencies. This can lead to negative consequences, including:

• Loss of sensitive, personal, student or proprietary information
• Disruption to network or operations
• Financial losses incurred to restore systems and files
• Potential harm to Newport News Public Schools reputation.

What do I do if I believe my system has been infected by Ransomware?

Unplug your system (e.g. Ethernet cables) from the network and disable any other network adapters such as wireless network interfaces. Ensure your system is fully disconnected from any networks and the Internet. This can aid in preventing the spread of the Ransomware to shared network resources such as file shares and other computers. Do not pay the pay the fine or ransom.

NNPS employees should immediately contact the Help Desk or their site based technology support specialist (TSS) for assistance.

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Video: What is Ransomware?

From the Washington Post