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Bancroft OPP Warning About Computer Hacking

Bancroft OPP are warning of a possible computer scam and want you to be prepared.

There have been multiple ransomware attacks over the past few months. OPP Constable Philippe Regamey explains that a ransomware attacks are when a cyber criminal infects the victim’s computer with malware. The malware encrypts the data making the data inaccessible to the victim. They often ask the victim to pay them to regain access to their computer, Regamey says.

“Quite often it’s through phishing emails that are sent out,” Regamey says. He gave the example of you might get an email from a bank asking for personal information. “Read the words, look at the language, see who it’s coming from,” Regamey says. If it’s from a bank you’re not a part of, delete the email, he says.

Ransomware has been affecting mostly businesses, but it’s something everyone should be aware of. Regamey says the best way to prepare for it is to have back-ups of all your files on an offline storage device. Strong passwords are important to have too, he added.

If you you do become a victim of ransomware, there are steps you need to take other than calling the police. Regamey says to take screenshots of the demands, the encrypted files and the email address of the attackers. After that, he says to make sure you unplug your computer.

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