eScan Decimates Ransomware Hoax News

More than the actual attack of the WannaCry Ransomware, which held to ransom millions of computers and businesses worldwide demanding a ransom to be paid in bitcoins worth $300 to unlock the data, it is the hoax now floating around social media to WhatsApp creating more panic among unaware users. The hoax messages range from not to use shopping sites, online banking to using ATMs as possible traps of the ransomware. eScan research team unravels the truth behind these hoax messages to bring you the truth behind the messages.

Here are some of the clarifications to ensure you do not fall prey to these texts:

1. RBI orders Shutdown of ATMs until they are patched and safe.

    Status: Hoax

    RBI has issued a clarification that they haven't issued such orders.

2. Avoid using ATMs and Do not do any online transaction

   Status: Hoax

   Any computer system infected with Ransomware would display the message that it has been infected.

3. Don't do any online transaction. Don't open any Shopping cart.

    Status: Hoax

    Webserver infected with Ransomware would simply be not able to serve the pages. Shopping carts do not store Ransomware.

However, while browsing and downloading software make sure that these executable are scanned by an antivirus.

1. Except for Africa all countries IT companies are hacked.

   Status: Hoax

   No explanations required because it's 100 per cent fake news. Such events when organisations get hacked are published all over the internet, TV channels etc. These news pieces aren't just limited to your limited group of friends.

2. Dance of the Hillary video

    Status: Hoax.

    There is no such video existing

We even received an advisory in our inbox which says:

• Power off smart TVs, tablets, and every other smart device.
• Turn off Bluetooth, WiFi, tethering (also known as Hotspot) on your mobile phones.
• Switch off your servers (or any other computers that you may leave on 24x7.
• Disconnect LAN (network, CAT6, CAT5) cable plugging computers or laptops in the network. If it is a laptop, it may have a physical slide switch or button press to switch off WiFi card inside the laptop - Switch That Off.
• if possible, wait for news from the eastern world

      Status: Hoax

      This simply means that we should lead the life of an ascetic.

• Keep the Antivirus Software active & updated on all your devices:

     Status: 100% True.

     Preferably buy a good antivirus, keep it updated, keep your operating system updated, take precautions, never divulge your personal information, are some of the things one should remember.

    Keep all your important data in backup (if your system has an auto back option available, keep it as auto enabled)   

Written by eScan