22 June 2017

Australians need to apply latest updates to protect from WanaCry ransomware: Alert Priority High

Stay Smart Online is urging Australian businesses and individuals to apply the latest updates for their applications and operating systems, especially Microsoft Windows, as people continue to fall victim to ransomware campaigns, including potentially WanaCry.

Stay Smart Online first warned about WanaCry on 13 May  and provided advice on how to protect yourself and your business on 15 May.  However, media is reporting today that Australian businesses continue to be impacted by the ransomware.

What to do now

There are very simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of your personal and business records being impacted by WanaCry ransomware.  The top two steps are:

  • Immediately install the latest Windows updates for applications, software and operating systems.  Note that updates are also available for Windows XP.
  • Confirm that backups are available and working – guidance on backups is available for businesses and individuals and households.

Details

WanaCry – like all ransomware –is a type of malicious software (malware) that makes your computer or its files unusable unless you pay a fee (a ransom).

Ransomware is one of the most frequent and damaging types of malware affecting people today. It can affect both individuals and organisations alike, and can impose significant costs – in both recovery and down time.

More information

Stay Smart Online has more information on ransomware for businesses and individuals and households, including further steps you can take to reduce your risk of being impacted.

The information provided here is of a general nature. Everyone’s circumstances are different. If you require specific advice you should contact your local technical support provider.

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Disclaimer
This information has been prepared by the Attorney General’s Department (‘the Department’). It was accurate and up to date at the time of publishing.
This information is general information only and is intended for use by private individuals and small to medium sized businesses. If you are concerned about a specific cyber security issue you should seek professional advice.
The Commonwealth and all other persons associated with this advisory accept no liability for any damage, loss or expense incurred as a result of the provision of this information, whether by way of negligence or otherwise.
Nothing in this information (including the listing of a person or organisation or links to other web sites) should be taken as an endorsement of a particular product or service.
Please note that third party views or recommendations included in this information do not reflect the views of the Commonwealth, or indicate its commitment to a particular course of action. The Commonwealth also cannot verify the accuracy of any third party material included in this information.

 

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