If like me you are useless with computers,backing up files and so forth,you might find this a worthy read..
PROTECT YOURSELF... 
Pay Up or Else
Tips to help you avoid falling victim to ransomware With all of the news about data breaches and other cybercriminal activity, you may have heard the term “ransomware” mentioned. But what is it exactly? In short, ransomware is harmful software (malware) that allows criminals to use extortion and hold your computer and the files on it for a big buck ransom fee. Sounds a bit frightening, doesn’t it? It is. And its use is growing. Ransomware attacks grew 113 percent in 2014. Take a moment now to learn more about it and what you can do to help prevent falling victim to this digital scourge. Recognizing ransomware Here’s how many ransomware schemes work: Malware secretly installs itself on a computer that lacks sufficient protection to block it. This could happen through a Web page, email attachment, or a link on social media sites. Once installed, the ransomware could lock certain files, or even the entire computer, so the user can’t access it. Next comes the extortion. Victims then may see a visual notice, or hear an audio file, claiming the computer has been locked by law enforcement or some large corporation with the intent to scare people into action. The computer is then locked, or the files are encrypted until the ransom is paid. An alternate version of ransomware is ‘scareware,’ which claims that the victim’s computer has a virus. In either case, if this happens to you, the crooks behind it all will attempt to strong arm you into paying money before you can access your computer or files again normally. At this point, your PC is being held for ransom—hence the name. So how can you help prevent this from happening?
Helping prevent ransomware
Don’t interact with spam email - By clicking links or opening suspicious attachments, you could be inviting ransomware, or other malware, onto your computer. Just delete spam immediately without opening it.
Avoid suspicious sites and downloads - Web sites that illegally promise free software, music, and movies are often bait to lure in unsuspecting victims. This plays into the theme of the ransomware pretending to originate from law enforcement. If you have teens in your home, who often like to visit such dubious sites, make them aware of this malware danger.
Arm your PC with strong, up-to-date security software - The right protection will recognize dangerous sites, downloads, and spam—stopping the ransomware dead in its digital tracks before it can install itself. Make sure your protection stays current though, or it won’t be able to recognize new threats.
Back-up your files often - as in most cases when ransomware hits, it is difficult to remove. Even if you do successfully remove the malware, your files may still remain inaccessible.
Keep your OS updated – malware like this finds ‘vulnerabilities’ or weak spots in your system if it hasn’t been updated in a while.
What if I’ve already been hit with ransomware?
Should you or a relative/friend ever fall victim to ransomware, do NOT pay the fee. Remember, we’re not talking about a legitimate business dealing here—but thieves and extortionists. Once they have your money (and the ransom is usually pretty expensive), they have no incentive to follow through on any promises to unlock your machine or files.
What if you can’t even access your computer at all? This is where the forward-thinking of always backing up your files automatically to both the Cloud and an external hard drive will save you. If you aren’t doing this now, make it a priority. It could also help prevent you from losing all of your files should theft, fire, or hardware failure strike. Ransomware is currently rampant on the Internet, and shows no signs of slowing down. Cybercriminals are making too much money on it. Make sure you help protect yourself by following these tips and sharing them with others.
HUGE READ BUT IF IT SAVES ONE FABBER FROM BEING A VICTIM,IT WILL HAVE BEEN WORTH IT 
HAPPY FABBING ...  |
Ah vista.... Microsoft's own virus. Time for a rebuild I think
