The WannaCry ransomware attack has already impacted more than 10,000 organizations and 200,000 individuals. According to authorities, it happened in over 150 countries and chances are, if you’re still using Windows XP, you’re very vulnerable.
You might have heard already of the ransomware attack that started last Friday. Microsoft quickly issued patches to Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10, which are all still on the company’s official list of supported systems. MalwareTech has managed to slow down the attacks, but the ransomware went back on its feet over the weekend.
In a surprising turn of events, Windows XP got an update too considering the number of users, both in business and personal spheres, who still can’t let go of the good old OS. The ransomware exploits a security flaw in Windows XP, encrypts the files on that PC, and spreads itself to others.
Since it’s a ransomware, it asks for something in exchange specifically USD300 in Bitcoin for the release of the files. In 3 days, it’ll double to USD600 if left unpaid, and worse, threatens to delete the encrypted files in a week.
If you’re still using Windows XP, it’s best to hit that update button and protect yourself from the attack immediately. So far, there’s no report of the attack in the Philippines according to Department of Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II.
This ransomware is purely a robbery with the consent of the owner. People behind this should be stopped and the bitcoins they got be frozen. Kaya nga lagi akong may back up lahat ng data ko. Mangyari man ito sa computer ko, reformat lang ng HD katapat nyan then copy back my back up files.
Ask ko lang mga sir, if computer is running on NON-genuine Windows 7 but with licensed anti virus software, will this be able to block threats even if OS is not updated?
Yes kasi pwede pa rin maexploit yung OS kahit na may anti-malware ka. Better to buy the genuine product.