Malicious 'Ransomware' Virus Strikes N.J., Local Authorities Warn

A malicious computer virus that holds your documents "hostage" has been reported in New Jersey, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office says.

If you suspect your computer has been infected by the malicious virus called Ransomware, chances are your files have been lost forever.

There is no cure for Ransonware infection, unless you have backed up your files on a secondary device, Ocean County Prosecutor's Office spokesman Al Della Fave says.

The computer virus has been reported in the United States and in over 20 countries in Europe, he said.

The malicious software can be installed from a website, e-mail, instant messages or social network. Once the computer is infected, it will lock up forever. The software often creates a pop-up window or warning demanding money to have the files returned, he said.

How do you avoid Ransomware?

• Keep your security software up to date and your up to date.
• Don't open spam e-mails or links to suspicous files.

• Back up files on a secondary device.
• Do NOT send money.

Please report any Ransomware incidents to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office High-Tech Crimes Unit at 732-929-2027. For more tips on how to avoid the virus, contact the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affiars at 732-929-2105.

Photo credit: Norton by Symantec.