Warning: 7ev3n is the Latest Ransomware

Author: Craig Pollack Date: Jan 28, 2016 Topics: Cybersecurity

Warning: 7ev3n is the Latest Ransomware

7ev3n Ransomware is the latest computer infection running amuk. After it enters your system, it immediately prevents good programs from running, kills the main process explorer.exe, and locks the screen. No different from any previous ransomware, the primary aim of 7ev3n is to extort money from users. All of these threats are all so similar because they all fall into the category of ransomware infections.

Security experts warn that ransomware infections target unprotected systems, so if you don't have anti-virus or anti-malware installed or it's not kept current and tend to surf the web often, it wouldn't be surprising that it's only a matter of time before you encounter 7ev3n. Unfortunately, not only is it really hard to remove ransomware infections (and 7ev3n Ransomware is no exception) often the only recourse is a complete restore from backup.

No different from any other ransomware, this particular infection encrypts all sorts of files on your system immediately after it gets in. It targets your most valuable data, ie: pictures and documents, but it also locks access to any other files it can get access to. Even if it leaves some files unencrypted, you won't be able to access them because Windows Explorer will be killed.  Exe files, including the Task Manager and Registry Editor, will be blocked, and the screen-sized message will cover the screen.

While it goes without saying, it should still be said - it's critical to remove 7ev3n Ransomware as soon as possible. That said, and metaphorically speaking, your first response to any sign of ransomware should be just like a fire - "stop, drop, and roll". What I mean be this is:

  1. Stop - Immediately stop what you're doing on your computer and don't do anything else.
  2. Drop - Immediately drop your network and/or internet connection. Unplug your computer from your network.
  3. Roll - Most often, the best (and sometimes only) response is simply to restore your data from your latest backup.

Number 3 is where we (your IT Service Provider) come into play. Give us a call and let us take over. Computers on a network cause the most damage. Because most ransomware is relentless. Not only will it encrypt your local data files, but it will also start going through any drives you're connected to - ie: your network drives.

Any way you look at it, if you find that you're infected with this latest virus, stop, drop, and roll.

Have you or do you know of anyone who's been infected with a ransomware type of virus? Share your experience with us in the Comments section below.

Also, if you'd like to see how your security precautions stack up, please download our free Cyber Security Report Card and evaluate how you're doing.

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Author

Craig Pollack

Craig Pollack

Craig is the Founder & CEO of FPA Technology Services, Inc. Craig provides the strategy and direction for FPA, ensuring its clients, business owners, and key decision makers leverage technology as efficiently and effectively as possible. With over 30 years of experience building the preeminent IT Service Provider in the Southern California area, Craig is one of the area’s leading authorities on how small to mid-sized businesses can best leverage and secure their technology to achieve their business objectives.

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