FBI MoneyPak ransomware

The FBI ransomware starts often by being downloaded accidentally or visiting a corrupt website and running an application with a modified JavaScript code. Sometimes other crimes, such as terrorism and gambling are included. It will also show the supposed IP address and sometimes a still from the user's webcam. The virus then demands between $100 and $1000 paid via pre-paid MoneyPak cards in order to release the infected hardware. The virus will be installed on the infected device so it still requires removal from the device. == Reaction ==

In 2012, the FBI published advice relating to the FBI MoneyPak virus, telling people not to pay the ransom as it was not from the official FBI and confirmed it was not the real FBI who had locked the computers. They also stated that users should go through authorized PC security firms to remove the ransomware or inform the IC3 – Internet Crime Complaint Center. In 2018, the FBI announced that working with the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency (NCA), they had arrested a number of people distributing the malware in the United States and that the NCA had arrested the creator of the virus in the United Kingdom. == References ==