Ransomware spreading via the cloud: Virlock another twist on cyber scourge

Cybercriminals are improving their ransomware techniques, with the latest strain, Virlock, able to spread through cloud storage and collaboration applications. This means it can be inadvertently spread across an organisation’s network, encrypting all files. The virus then asks for a Bitcoin payment to unlock the files, making it more effective than previous strains. To prevent infection, organisations should regularly update software and anti-malware, scan files and enable the showing of hidden file extensions. Non-brute force decryptors do not yet exist for Virlock, so it is important to use security software to protect against all known strains.