Tuesday, May 21, 2013

The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

Scam locking computers, posing as FBI
Posted: 10.10.2012 at 11:47 AM
0
Slideshow
Photo:

Turning your computer on and off will unlock it

A computer scam claiming to be with the FBI tries to get its victims to pay a fine.

A pop-up appears, saying the computer has been locked by the FBI for the downloading of illegal files. The program does actually lock the victim's computer, so they can't exit or minimize the page.

To unlock the screen, the scam prompts the victim to pay a $200 fine. It even provides instructions for getting a "MoneyPak" card so that the "fine" can be paid.

Turning your computer off and disengaging it from the power, waiting a few minutes and then restarting will unlock the computer.

Anti-virus and anti-malware programs can help prevent these electronic attacks, while backing up important files is always smart.

Popular Stories
Thumbnail
Severe storms moving into mid-Missouri
Zac Evans  |  Yesterday at 2:35 PM  |  2 comments
Thumbnail
Five Jefferson City residents arrested during possible burglary in progress
Newsdesk KRCG  |  Yesterday at 11:18 AM  |  2 comments
Thumbnail
Columbia man dead in overnight shooting
Juliette Dryer  |  Sunday, May 19, 2013  |  4 comments
Follow Connect Mid-Missouri
Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below
Sign up to get alerts and updates for breaking news, severe weather, and deals:
submit
ADVERTISEMENT
Special Features
Relay For Life of Cole County
Friday, June 7, at 6 p.m. at the Jefferson City Jaycees Fairgrounds
Community Connection
Participate in great causes in the community!
ADVERTISEMENT