[Urgent] Petya Ransomware - Action Required

Australians need to apply latest software updates to protect against new global ransomware campaign

Source: https://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/alert-service/australians-need-apply-latest-software-updates-protect-against-new-global-ransomware-campaign

Media is reporting the ransomware, called 'Petya', is spreading in the United States, Europe and Asia. Petya makes your computer or its files unusable unless you pay a fee (a ransom). There are emerging reports of Australian organisations being impacted.

In particular, businesses, individuals and households who have not updated their Microsoft Windows software are potentially vulnerable to the virus.

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 Petya 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

Details

Petya – 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.