What are CryptoLocker and Gameover Zeus malware?

You might recently have heard of malware called CryptoLocker or Gameover Zeus. Here’s some advice on what to do if your computer’s affected by either of these bad boys!

 
 

What has happened?

We work with non-profit organisations who warn us when they identify infected devices connected to the internet. They notify us when our customers' home gadgets may be compromised, so if you’re affected we let you know.

Gameover Zeus: Often spread through spam and phishing messages, Gameover Zeus is

a peer-to-peer variant of the Zeus family of bank credential-stealing malware. Zeus was first identified back in September 2011.

CryptoLocker is a recent kind of ransomware. If this malware infects a device, it will encrypt files stored on the hard drive. The user is then told they must pay a ransom to receive the decryption key to recover their files. If the ransom is not paid, you risk losing your personal files.

How can I keep my devices secure?

If you can, act right away!

1. Use antivirus software. Use the software to run a complete scan of your device so you can get rid of any malware. Antivirus software recognises and protects your computer against most known viruses. It’s important to keep your antivirus software up-to-date.

2. Change your passwords. Your original passwords may have been compromised during the infection, so it’s important to change them. Tips for a stronger password

3. Keep your operating system and software up-to-date. Keep your operating system and software up-to-date. Install software patches so attackers can't take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Most systems offer automatic updates. Top tip: Always enable this option if it’s available.

4. Use anti-malware tools. Using a program that identifies and removes malware can help eliminate an infection. There are some security tools that can help remove Gameover Zeus or CryptoLocker (See our list below).

Where can I find more info?

Get more help and advice about malware in the above FAQ.

Here’s our list of handy security tools:

F-Secure

http://www.f-secure.com/en/web/home_global/online-scanner * (Windows Vista, 7 and 8)

Heimdal

http://goz.heimdalsecurity.com/ * (Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 8.1)

Microsoft

http://www.microsoft.com/security/scanner/en-us/default.aspx * (Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP)

Sophos

http://www.sophos.com/VirusRemoval * (Windows XP (SP2) and above)

Symantec
http://www.symantec.com/connect/blogs/international-takedown-wounds-gameover-zeus-cybercrime-network * (Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7)

Trend Micro
http://www.trendmicro.com/threatdetector * (Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2008 R2)

Sorry, but Virgin Media can’t accept any responsibility for external links or third party software you install on your computer.

Need more info? No problem! Get in touch with us at aup@virginmedia.ie