Tag Archives: malware

Windows Update Ransomware Exploit

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Magniber ransomware is spreading like wildfire thanks to a coordinated effort that began in early April and involves the exploitation of bogus Windows 10 patches.

What is ransomware?

In the simplest words, ransomware is a type of malware that affects your computer and demands a ransom in exchange for access to it. It encrypts all of your files and directs you to contact the hacker in order to negotiate a payment arrangement. As a result, we have RANSOMware!

According to BleepingComputer, “Based on the submissions to VirusTotal, this campaign appears to have started on April 8th, 2022 and has seen massive distribution worldwide since then. While it’s not 100% clear how the fake Windows 10 updates are being promoted, the downloads are distributed from fake warez and crack sites.”

This particular exploit targeted consumers instead of companies.

To avoid any and all unwanted cyber assaults, make sure that your antivirus software is current on your computer. Keep in mind that Windows 10 and 11 updates are sent through the operating system. Microsoft will never send updates through other channels such as e-mail or social media.

If you ever have an issue with any Windows 10 updates, give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog article was written by a member of our team at the Garland Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Garland, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Computer Issues Due to Internet

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While browsing the internet, your device is continually downloading data, images, and occasionally additional applications, allowing you to fully utilize the web. Nonetheless, when accessing the Internet, it is critical to be conscious of both your privacy and your security. Every digital device that is linked to the Internet has the potential to be infected with obtrusive spyware (adware & malware) and phishing. Malicious software can be installed secretly on any computer without the owner’s knowledge.

Unfortunately, there are many Spyware traps on the Internet. Open an apparently innocent online page, click on a false hyperlink, a pop-up, or a clickable graphic, and you may have unintentionally opened the door to spyware-laden websites that jeopardize your web safety and privacy with just one click.

While adware, in its worst form, can cause your system to slow down and finally freeze owing to the junk it has amassed on your computer, malware and viruses can take you down a more perilous road. They can gain control of your device and do harmful operations on your computer such as modifying settings, gathering personal data, capturing keystrokes to steal passwords and other important information, stealing files, and spreading the virus via email to your contacts.

What can be done?

Firewalls and antivirus software are important precautions that each internet user should adopt since they are effective instruments against intrusive spyware. They will remove any problematic stuff identified on your machine.

Windows security baselines provide Microsoft-recommended security configurations which reduce Windows systems’ attack surface and increase the overall security posture of enterprise endpoints.

“A security baseline is a group of Microsoft-recommended configuration settings that explains their security impact,” as Microsoft explains. “These settings are based on feedback from Microsoft security engineering teams, product groups, partners, and customers.”

The Windows 10 21H2 security baseline is now available for download via the Microsoft Security Compliance Toolkit, and it includes Group Policy Object (GPO) backups and reports, the scripts needed to apply settings to the local GPO, as well as Policy Analyzer rules.

Source: Bleeping Computer

Whether you need diagnostics for your computer, virus removal or just advice on problems with your computer, Karls Technology Computer Repair is here to help!

For help updating, restoring, or dealing with any security issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Pembroke Pines Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Pembroke, FL please call or text the local office at (754) 241-1655.

The Difference Between Adware and Spyware

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Throughout the world of technology, many different types of software flourish. Some are safe and secure, while others tend to cause a ruckus to your PC. No one wants that. Unfortunately, cyber hacking is very much apparent in software and has the ability to be quite secretive. Two kinds of these kinds of software are Adware and Spyware.

What is Adware?

Adware, simply put, is advertising-supported software. Malwarebytes says, “Some security professionals view it as the forerunner of the modern-day PUP (potentially unwanted program).”

It is generally a tricky method of claiming its legitimacy so you will download its content. And when you do, unwanted pop-up advertisements will occur while you’re on the internet. It’s aggravating and annoying, to say the least. However, they’re less malicious than the Spyware. Adware can exist on both PC and mobile.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is mostly described as a malicious kind of software that is intended to find personal information. And it doesn’t stop there. This also allows the hacker to track browsing and reveal any kind of login credentials. Sometimes, they’re able to review in the information and report it back to their own software, or a third-party, without the user’s knowledge or consent.

What do I do if my computer is infected?

It’s very important for your computer to have the latest update to ensure the best security and safety. The operating systems include enhanced anti-virus software, which can be ran through your Security Settings.

Windows 10, for example, involves a Virus & threat protection that automatically does a quick scan throughout the day, every day. You can also opt-in for a Full scan, a Custom scan, or a Microsoft Defender Offline scan.

Many anti-virus software options are free. Researching can help you find the best one suited for your PC.

For help updating, restoring or dealing with any Windows 10 issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Denver Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

Windows 10 Ransomware E-Mails – Do NOT Download

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If you get an e-mail telling you to install Windows 10 updates, simply delete it.

Newly discovered malware is asking victims to update to the most recent version of Windows 10. ‘Install Latest Microsoft Windows Update immediately!’ or ‘Critical Microsoft Windows Update!’ appears in the subject line, and when you open it, a file extension attachment appears for you to click on.

This malicious download will infect any computer that downloads the “.jpg” file extension. TechRadar reported that the download, “encrypts all of the files on the infected user’s system and appends their filenames with its own file extension, 777. A ransom note with the filename ‘Cyborg_DECRYPT.txt’ is then left on the desktop of the compromised machine. Finally, the ransomware leaves a copy of itself called ‘bot.exe’ hidden at the root of the infected drive.”

The GitHub file name

The file is called ‘bitcoingenerator.exe’ and the GitHub account is named “misterbtc2020”. This ransomware locks your PC and your files, encrypted. For a ransom, you can receive your files as decrypted.

Make sure your antivirus is up to date on your computer to avoid any and all malicious cyber attacks. Also, remember that Windows 10 updates only push through its operating system and not through e-mails.

If you ever have an issue with any Windows 10 updates, give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Garland Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Garland, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

A Familiar Trojan is Back

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If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.

Malware finds its way into just about everything. From online game downloads to e-mail attachments, users are encouraged to be mindful of where the source is coming from. You shouldn’t download unknown software, as the risk of viruses rises.

Just recently, TechRadar shared a returning trojan that was involved in cyberattacks between 2018 and 2020. They stated that ‘DanaBot’ produced no activity for several months. However, lately, there have been noticeable schemes from the malware.

“The DanaBot malware works by hiding two stealer components within the software key of pirated tools. The first software key is used to collect browser details, system information, and cryptocurrency wallets from the victim, while the second is used to install a cryptocurrency miner.”

Source: TechRadar

DanaBot distributes its malware software online, impersonating legit games or free downloads. When pursued, the malware gives hackers the opportunity to steal personal information, such as banking credentials.

For help with computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Miami Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Miami, FL please call the local office at (786) 780-1540.

Malicious Emails Could Cause Admin Issues

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Microsoft Office’s years old defect has allowed hackers to create e-mails which could potentially wreak havoc. If you use Microsoft Office, keep reading!

According to NIST, “Microsoft Office 2007 Service Pack 3, Microsoft Office 2010 Service Pack 2, Microsoft Office 2013 Service Pack 1, and Microsoft Office 2016 allow an attacker to run arbitrary code in the context of the current user by failing to properly handle objects in memory, aka “Microsoft Office Memory Corruption Vulnerability”. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-11884.”

If a certain account has the high admin control, and the hacker receive the privileges, it could be troublesome. That could potentially allow them to delete information, install just about anything, and give them access to any and all private information.

Make sure your antivirus is up to date on your computer to avoid any and all malicious cyber attacks. Also, remember that Windows 10 updates are only pushed through its operating system and not through e-mails.

If you ever have an issue with any Windows 10 updates, give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Garland Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Garland, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Emotet Malware is Back

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The infamous Emotet malware has caused trouble again, according to researcher sources.

Back in 2014, Emotet was founded as a banking trojan, deciding on third party malware after using their own. This produced a handful of malicious spamming and stealing personal information.

Tech Radar states on their blog, “In May of last year, Proofpoint researchers observed Emotet delivering third-party payloads including Qbot, The Trick, IcedID and Gootkit. The malware also now loads modules for spamming, credential stealing, email harvesting and spreading via local networks.”

Last week, researchers found an astounding 250,000 e-mails sent out by Emotet after 5 months of inactivity. These e-mails include links with Microsoft Word and will download and install malware to the computer. In turn, hackers can receive any and all data they want.

Companies are the biggest target for Emotet, and come with a hefty problem if not combated with anti-virus software. It’s always best to remember not to open e-mails or attachments that are unknown to the user.

*Update 7/21 – A new scam for a Google Chrome update is circulating around the world, zoning in on multiple organizations. These e-mail scams will download malware if the links are clicked on. Keep an eye out.

For help with computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Mesa Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Mesa, AZ please call the local office at (480) 240-2950.

Someone Hijacked Phorpiex botnet and Uninstalling Their Malware

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Late last month, security analysts recognized a hijack of the Phorpiex botnet.

Phorpiex Botnet is a 10 year old network that has spread malware and has affected computers all across the world. And if you have this particular malware on your computer, you may have found a pop-up message saying “Please install AntiVirus Software and update your computer!”

At first, security analysts thought it was a prank by the Phorpiex network. However, they soon realized that the malware was slowly dissipating from those affected.

Though there’s no definite explanation for this, some say that it’s possible another malware network hacked into the Phorpiex system so they would lose funds. Competition seems to heighten in the cyber-criminal world.

To avoid these, and other malware problems on your PC, make sure to keep your operating system up to date and have the latest anti-virus software installed.

If you are needing assistance with any malware issues, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Arlington Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Arlington, TX please call the local office at (817) 756-6008.

New Trojan Malware through Word

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New phishing emails that contain trojan malware are spreading, according to experts. The malware, named Ursnif, is contained in Word documents through emails and allow cyber hackers to steal personal credentials.

Ursnif isn’t the first of its kind, however. It was reported that this particular variant has been around since 2007 and specifically targets Windows OS. Fortinet, a top-rated security platform, recently stated this threat to be highly active.

“When a victim opens the Word document, it displays a security warning message designed to protect MS Word users from malicious macros (VBA code).  However, the document content deceives victims to click the “Enable Content” button, as shown in Figure 1. When the button is clicked, the malicious VBA code is executed because the code is in an AutoOpen sub that is executed at opening the document.”

Source: fortinet.com – Figure 1

It’s highly advised that you do not open any documents through e-mails unless you know exactly who it is from. Be sure to double check the address it was sent from as well. Many times, the name will show up legit, but the email address itself does not match.