ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (WHAT THE TECH?) — The FBI is warning that cyberterrorists are targeting people and businesses with software that could steal data and even shut down computers.

According to the FBI, the cyberattacks are ongoing anyone could be affected.

The cyberterrorists are known as “Ghost”. The group reportedly uses publicly-available code, often found on the Dark Web, and installs that code remotely by attacking internet servers that haven’t been updated.

Sounds confusing, but here’s what that means to normal people like us.

The code is being used to wreak havoc on computer systems. When the ransomware is remotely installed on computers, it generally is weaponized in under 24 hours. Victims are unaware it’s on their system until it deploys.

The ransomware gets into computers connected to the internet through software that hasn’t been updated. The FBI says it’s already compromised computers using Adobe and Microsoft servers.

The FBI urges everyone to back up their computer and files. The hackers could encrypt files and they’ll demand a ransom to get your computer to start working again.

It’s also extremely important to ensure all your computer software is updated to the latest version. Browsers, anti-virus programs, operating systems. Anything with available security updates.

Windows computers, just click on the window to install updates and restart. Browsers typically show if any updates are available.

The FBI says the biggest targets of this cyber attack are religious organizations, hospitals,schools, and small and medium-sized businesses.

And if a computer in your organization or business is hit by ransomware, disconnect it from the server or network immediately. It isn’t often the FBI issues such a stern warning, so it’s important to pay attention, backup the computers, and update software.

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