WannaCry ransomware has now hit Malaysia, with 2 known computers being infected. The malware began infecting computers worldwide 3 days ago, and reports now put the number of infected devices at over 300,000. Stop opening attachments you don’t recognize, people!
The Star reports that IT security services company LGMS has stated that one case involves the director of one of its clients whose personal laptop was infected. Company head C. F. Fong says that the man’s data was wiped after he refused to pay ransom. The second computer effected was a computer used at an automotive shop.
These are the only reported cases, although a website tracking WannaCry infections has started showing “blips” in the KL urban area. The site will register a “blip” whenever an infected computer pings its tracking servers. This gives authorities an idea of how far WannaCry has spread.
Early today US authorities made a formal statement saying that globally, infected users had paid around $70,000 USD in ransom to try and recover lost data. Authorities are not aware of any instances in which a payment has led to getting your data back.
In short: back your data up, don’t open strange attachments or emails, change your passwords regularly and above all … if you do get this malicious software, don’t give these guys any money.
