The cyberattack struck Los Angeles Valley College late last month, disrupting email, voice mail and computer systems at the public community college in Southern California.Then, school officials found a ransom note.The missive advised the college that its electronic files had been encrypted and that the files could only be unlocked with a "private key."The attackers would supply the key after receiving payment in the valuable digital currency known as bitcoin, which can be used anonymously without a centralized bank."Youhave just 7 days to send us the BitCoin after 7 days we will remove your private keys and it's impossible to recover your files," the attackers warned, according to a copy of the note obtained by The Washington Post.Leaders of the Los Angeles Community College District decided to pay the ransom."In consultation with district and college leadership, outside cybersecurity experts and law enforcement, a payment of $28,000 was made by the District," Francisco C. Rodriguez, the district's chancellor, said in a statement on Jan.

"It was the assessment of our outside cybersecurity experts that making a payment would offer an extremely high probability of restoring access to the affected systems, while failure to pay would virtually guarantee that data would be lost."Districtofficials report that the payment yielded the desired information.Email and other information systems were back in working order as Los Angeles authorities investigated what officials believe was a randomly targeted attack.As of Thursday evening, IT experts were still working to unlock some of the college's files.Classes were proceeding normally, on campus and online, officials said.Students returned from winter break on Jan.3, as scheduled, days after the attack was detected on Dec.30.The incident at the 19,000-student community college provides another cautionary tale of the vulnerability of higher education to malicious hackers.Like businesses, colleges and universities are in a continual quest to stay a step ahead of attackers who threaten in numerous ways to breach or disrupt critical databases and networks.

The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse counts 19 educational institutions that disclosed data-security breaches in 2016, including hacking episodes at the University of Virginia, the University of Central Florida, the University of Connecticut and Michigan State University.Now colleges and other institutions face the rising threat of ransom seekers.armory bitcoin wikiThe term "ransomware" has been coined to describe software that can infiltrate a computer and block access to files when an unsuspecting user clicks on a malicious download link in an email or a pop-up window.Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in Southern California acknowledged paying a $17,000 ransom last year to regain control of its systems after an attack."Ransomwareethereum token apphas rapidly risen, from my perspective, to be one of the foremost threats we're facing in information technology, anywhere, let alone in higher ed," said Joseph Moreau, vice chancellor of technology at Foothill-De Anza Community College District in Silicon Valley.Moreau, who serves on the board of directors of Educause, a nonprofit group focused on information technology in higher education, said he found the latest Los Angeles incident "frightening."bitcoin kurs live

Word of the attack spread quickly through California's large community college system, he said."Itwas big news, for sure," he said.Staying ahead of hackers is difficult, he said, especially if they are able to steal the user names and passwords of students or staff.bitcoin consensus protocol"We're constantly plugging new holes," Moreau said.Moreau said his district, like its counterpart in Los Angeles, is insured against losses due to cyberattacks.bitcoin kurs 500Los Angeles district officials noted that their insurance policy was activated after the recent attack."Whilebitcoin zu chfmuch time will pass before this matter is resolved, we have already availed ourselves of the resources provided by the policy, including assistance of cybersecurity experts," district officials said in a statement.ethereum based startups

CTB-Locker ransomware virus infiltrates operating systems via infected email messages and fake downloads (for example, rogue video players or fake Flash updates).After successful infiltration, this malicious program encrypts various files (*.doc, *.docx, *.xls, *.ppt, *.psd, *.pdf, *.eps, *.ai, *.cdr, *.jpg, etc.)bitcoin diario el comerciostored on computers and demands a ransom payment of $300 (in Bitcoins) to decrypt them (encrypted documents receive the .ctbl files extension).virus in bitcoin blockchainCyber criminals responsible for releasing this rogue program ensure that it executes on all Windows operating system versions (Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8).CTB-Locker ransomware creates AllFilesAreLocked.bmp DecryptAllFiles.txt and [seven random letters].html files within each folder containing the encrypted files.

These files contain instructions detailing how users may decrypt their files, and on use of the Tor browser (an anonymous web browser).Cyber criminals use Tor to hide their identities.PC users should beware that while the infection itself is not complicated to remove, decryption of files (encrypted using RSA 2048 encryption) affected by this malicious program is impossible without paying the ransom.At time of research, there were no tools or solutions capable of decrypting files encrypted by Critroni.Note that the private key required to decrypt the files is stored on the CTB-Locker command-and-control servers, which are managed by cyber criminals.Therefore, the best solution is to remove this ransomware virus and then restore your data from a backup.Ransomware infections such as CTB-Locker (including CryptoWall, CryptoDefense, CryptorBit, and Cryptolocker) present a strong case to maintain regular backups of your stored data.Note that paying the ransom as demanded by this ransomware is equivalent to sending your money to cyber criminals - you will support their malicious business model and there is no guarantee that your files will ever be decrypted.

To avoid computer infection with ransomware such as this, express caution when opening email messages, since cyber criminals use various catchy titles to trick PC users into opening infected email attachments (for example, "UPS Exception Notification" or "FedEx Delivery Failure Notification").Research shows that cyber criminals also use P2P networks and fake downloads containing bundled ransomware infections to proliferate Critroni.Currently, the 'Your personal files are encrypted' ransomware threat is delivered in the English and Russian languages.Therefore, countries speaking these languages are at the top of the target list of cyber criminals proliferating this malware.Update 2015 January 20 - Cyber criminals have released an updated version of CTB-Locker ransomware targeting USA, Italy, Netherlands, and Germany.This variant is mostly distributed using fake fax notification emails with infected attachments.Cyber criminals have also extended the time frame in which their victims must pay the ransom to regain control of their files to 96 hours (previously, 72 hours): Message presented in AllFilesAreLocked.bmp DecryptAllFiles.txt and [7 random letters].html files: Your documents, photos, databases and other important files have been encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key, generated for this computer.

Private decryption key is stored on a secret Internet server and nobody can decrypt your files until you pay and obtain the private key.If you see the main locker window, follow the instructions on the locker.Otherwise, it's seems that you or your antivirus deleted the locker program.Now you have the last chance to decrypt your files. in your Internet browser.It opens the Tor site.Press 'Download Tor', then press 'DOWNLOAD Tor Browser Bundle',   install and run it.Now you have Tor Browser.In the Tor Browser open the hxxp://zaxseiufetlkwpeu.onion   Note that this server is available via Tor Browser only.Retry in 1 hour if site is not reachable.Copy and paste the following public key in the input form on server.Follow the instructions on the server.Screenshot of CTB-Locker Tor based website explaining victims how to pay the ransom to decrypt their files (links to this Tor site can be found in the AllFilesAreLocked [victims_id].bmp, DecryptAllFiles [victims_id].txt, and [random].html files): Text presented within this website: Payment requiredServer accepts payment in Bitcoin (BTC) only.If you have bitcoins:1.

Pay amount of 3 BTC to address: 1Hf2vPmYNxzFYWiaURs75h8JoyCczLXCG22.Transaction will take about 15-30 minutes to confirm.If you do not have bitcoins:1./ and find person who sells bitcoins near you.Buy 3 BTC (about of 1740 USD) and make direct deposit to bitcoin address: 1Hf2vPmYNxzFYWiaURs75h8JoyCczLXCG2   Exact payment amount can vary depending of exchange rates.4.Transaction completion may take several days.Reload this page in 15 minutes.After transaction completes you will be redirected to decryption page.Don't worry if some errors occurs and connection was broken.Wait 15 minutes and press F5.To make sure that decryption is possible you are allowed to decrypt 2 any files for free.File size is limited up to 1 Mbyte.Cyber criminals now use a fake Windows 10 update email message with an infected attachment to spread this ransomware (the infected file is called "Win10Installer.zip" - please do not download this attachment): Screenshots of infected email messages used in CTB Locker ransomware distribution: Text presented within infected email messages: ) This is a follow-up on your package delivery (tracking number 0p2uYq5RIho).

The package contained in the above-mentioned shipment was not accepted at the destination address.Please contact your local UPS office and produce the printed delivery sticker, included in this email attachment.Please note that in case of a failure to contact your local UPS office within 21 days the parcel will be returned to sender. This is automatically generated delivery status email, please do to reply to it.Screenshot of the AllFilesAreLocked.bmp file: Screenshot of the DecryptAllFiles.txt file: Screenshot of the [seven random letters].html file: 'Your personal files are encrypted' ransomware payment page: Message presented on the 'Your personal files are encrypted' ransom payment page: Screenshot of CTB-Locker affiliate server: Cyber criminals responsible for creating CTB-Locker ransomware use an affiliate scheme to spread their malware.Affiliates who register and distribute CTB-Locker receive 70% of the profits generated by this ransomware.Note: at time of writing, there were no known tools capable of decrypting files encrypted by CTB-Locker without paying the ransom.

By following this removal guide, you will be able to remove this ransomware from your computer, however, the affected files will remain encrypted.We will update this article as soon as there is more information available regarding decryption of compromised files.Update February 13, 2016 - CTB-Locker or Cyber criminals using the name of this Windows ransomware have started encrypting websites hosted on Linux servers.The criminals demand a 0.4 BTC ransom to return data to the webmasters of the compromised websites.Previously known ransomware targeting webmasters in this manner was named Linux.Encoder.Screenshot of the homepage from a website compromised by CTB-Locker ransomware: Text presented on the homepage ("Attention!What happened?") of the CTB-Locker compromised website: Attention!What happened?:Your personal files are encrypted by CTB-Locker.Your scripts, documents, photos, databases and other important files have been encrypted with strongest encryption algorithm AES-256 and unique key, generated for this site.

Decryption key is stored on a secret Internet server and nobody can decrypt your files until you pay and obtain the decryption key.Fbi's advice on cryptolocker just pay the ransom What to do?For decrypt your files you need to make a few simple steps:1.Send 0.4 BTC (~150$) to the address -3.After payment, confirmation is expected within from 15 minutes to 3 hours.You can track confirmations of your transaction in -4.Click button:DECRYPTYou must carry out this actions before: - At the expiry of the time redemption amount will be 0.8 BTC.Please make payment in a timely.Do not try to cheat the system, edit encrypted files, edit CTB-locker internal files or delete any file.This will result in the inability to recover your data, and we can not help you.Only way to keep your files is to follow the instruction.“Chat Room” - Live chat feature to communicate directly to cyber criminals: Text presented in the “Chat Room” page: If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave a english message below.

To prove that you are an administrator, you must specify the name of the secret file that is in same directory with index.php.We will reply to you within 24 hours.“Free decrypt” page - cyber criminals allow victims to decrypt two files free of charge: Text presented in the “Free decrypt” page: We give you the opportunity to decipher 2 files free!DECRYPT IT FREE You can make sure that the service really works and after payment for the CTB-Locker script you can actually decrypt the files.Do not attempt to replace free decrypted files because they have another encryption key!If you will try to decrypt by this key other files, you will break it.Windows XP and Windows 7 users: Start your computer in Safe Mode.Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart, click OK.During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until you see the Windows Advanced Option menu, then select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.Video showing how to start Windows 7 in "Safe Mode with Networking": Windows 8 users: Go to the Windows 8 Start Screen, type Advanced, in the search results select Settings.

Click on Advanced Startup options, in the opened "General PC Settings" window select Advanced Startup.Click on the "Restart now" button.Your computer will now restart into "Advanced Startup options menu".Click on the "Troubleshoot" button, then click on "Advanced options" button.In the advanced option screen click on "Startup settings".Click on the "Restart" button.Your PC will restart into the Startup Settings screen.Press "5" to boot in Safe Mode with Networking.Video showing how to start Windows 8 in "Safe Mode with Networking": Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon.In the opened menu click "Restart" while holding "Shift" button on your keyboard.In the "choose an option" window click on the "Troubleshoot", next select "Advanced options".In the advanced options menu select "Startup Settings" and click on the "Restart" button.In the following window you should click the "F5" button on your keyboard.This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.

Video showing how to start Windows 10 in "Safe Mode with Networking": Log in to the account infected with the CTB-Locker virus.Start your Internet browser and download a legitimate anti-spyware program.Update the anti-spyware software and start a full system scan.Remove all entries detected.Download Remover for Windows If you need assistance removing this ransomware, give us a call 24/7:(866) 983-7844 By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.Free scanner checks if your computer is infected.To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Combo Cleaner.If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking, try performing a System Restore.Video showing how to remove ransomware virus using "Safe Mode with Command Prompt" and "System Restore": 1.During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until the Windows Advanced Options menu appears, and then select Safe Mode with Command Prompt from the list and press ENTER.

When Command Prompt mode loads, enter the following line: cd restore and press ENTER.Next, type this line: rstrui.exe and press ENTER.In the opened window, click "Next".Select one of the available Restore Points and click "Next" (this will restore your computer system to an earlier time and date, prior to the CTB-Locker ransomware virus infiltrating your PC).In the opened window, click "Yes".After restoring your computer to a previous date, download and scan your PC with recommended malware removal software to eliminate any remaining Critroni files.To restore individual files encrypted by this ransomware, try using the Windows Previous Versions feature.This method is only effective if the System Restore function was enabled on an infected operating system.Note that some variants of CTB-Locker are known to remove Shadow Volume Copies of the files, so this method may not work on all computers.To restore a file, right-click on it, go into Properties, and select the Previous Versions tab.

If the relevant file has a Restore Point, select it and click the "Restore" button.If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking (or with Command Prompt), boot your computer using a rescue disk.Some variants of ransomware disable Safe Mode, thus making its removal complicated.For this step, you require access to another computer.To protect your computer from file encrypting ransomware such as this, use reputable antivirus and anti-spyware programs.As an extra protection method, you can use programs called HitmanPro.Alert and Malwarebytes Anti-Ransomware, which artificially implant group policy objects into the registry to block rogue programs such as CTB-Locker.HitmanPro.Alert CryptoGuard - detects encryption of files and neutralises such attempts without need for user intervention: Malwarebytes Anti-Ransomware Beta uses advanced proactive technology that monitors ransomware activity and terminates it immediately - before reaching users' files: Other tools known to remove CTB-Locker ransomware: