The Thousand Oaks Police Department would like to remind residents that scams are constantly evolving with no chance of slowing down. Therefore, it is important to be vigilant when using your computer. The following scam, although realistic looking, is nothing more than an opportunity for you to become a victim.
The Federal Bureau of Investigations Internet Crime Complaint Center and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have recently received complaints regarding a ransomeware campaign using the name of the DHS to extort money from unsuspecting victims.
The IC3 posted an alert about the Citadel malware platform used to deliver ransomeware known as Reveton. The ransomeware directs you to a download website, at which time it is installed on your computer.
Ransomeware is used to intimidate you into paying a fine to “unlock” your computer. The ransomeware has been called “FBI Ransomeware” because it frequently uses the FBI’s name including the names of FBI programs such as InfraGard and IC3. Similar ransomeware campaigns have used the names of other law enforcement agencies such as Department of Homeland Security.
As in other variations, the ransomeware using the name of the DHS produces a warning that accuses you of violating various U.S. laws and locks your computer. To unlock your computer and avoid legal issues, you are told that you must pay a $300.00 fine, via a prepaid money card.
This is not legitimate communications from law enforcement, but rather an attempt to extort money from you. If you have received this message or something similar, do not follow the instructions in the warning and do not attempt to pay the fine.
We suggest you do the following:
· Contact a reputable computer expert to assist with removing the malware
· File a complaint at www.IC3.gov
· Keep operating systems and legitimate antivirus and antispyware software updated.
Contact Information:
Senior Deputy Timothy Lohman
(805) 371-8362
[email protected]
