Is this type of malware (that encrypts your personal files, presumably holding them random until you pay somebody) particularly common? It’s an idea that wouldn’t be out of place in a Gibson novel!
It’s called ransomware, and while it’s not extremely prevalent, it’s also not uncommon. Here’s a Sophos article about a new technique from the other day. Also, check out the wikipedia page on ransomware.
Damn Kyle, you beat me to it. You know a new language is hitting its stride once the malware code starts showing up.
Is this type of malware (that encrypts your personal files, presumably holding them random until you pay somebody) particularly common? It’s an idea that wouldn’t be out of place in a Gibson novel!
It’s called ransomware, and while it’s not extremely prevalent, it’s also not uncommon. Here’s a Sophos article about a new technique from the other day. Also, check out the wikipedia page on ransomware.