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“Computer malware is a common topic that people have to protect themselves against,” said Declan Ingram, deputy director of CERT NZ.
“However, this one in particular is rapidly and continuously evolving globally.”
The infection starts when someone clicks on a link or attachment sent by email.
Not only does the person’s device get infected with malware, but the virus sends the same emails to the person’s contact list, continuing the cycle.
“The tricky thing is that these malicious emails often don’t come from spam email addresses, which is usually a sign that an email is suspicious,” Ingram said.
“Because the cyber attacker has access to someone’s contact list, the email is sent by a person you know and could even be embedded in an email conversation thread you have with that person.
“That is why it is extremely important to have up-to-date antivirus software on your computer.”
If your device has been affected, CERT NZ recommends disconnecting the affected computer from your network immediately and contacting your IT support team.
The malware would have access to your computer, including account login credentials and passwords, including things like online banking, which will need to be changed.
It’s important that you only change your passwords using a different computer, says CERT NZ, as the malware can log any changes you make.
