Cryptolocker

If this splash screen shows up on your monitor,

http://cdn.blog.malwarebytes.org/wp-...yptolocker.png

you have a problem - unless you have a non-infected backup of the now-encrypted files.

Here are four articles (from Symantec, Avast!, Kaspersky and Malwarebytes) on Cryptolocker:

Cryptolocker Alert: Millions in the UK Targeted in Mass Spam Campaign

Can avast! protect me against CryptoLocker?

CryptoLocker is Bad News

Cryptolocker Ransomware: What You Need To Know

Obviously, prevention is the only answer. As to that, here are some resources (besides AV and AM software, such as the four above):

How to prevent Cryptolocker Ransomware to hit your PC

CryptoLocker Ransomware Information Guide and FAQ

Virus, Spyware, & Malware Removal Guides

Besides having "always on" AV and AM protection, there are two specific freeware software programs that offer some added protection against Cryptolocker and other ransomware threats:

HitmanPro's CryptoGuard

CryptoPrevent, for which the URL is scuppered by the SWC $hit filter. Cut and paste this "URL", and then change "$" to "s", in your web address line:

http://www.fooli$hit.com/vb6-projects/cryptoprevent/

This sort of thing makes one think about cybersecurity.

Regards

Mike