FBI Warns Iowa Gmail & Outlook Users About Ransomware Scams

If you have either a personal or a work email, there is an excellent chance you use Gmail and/or Outlook.

The FBI has a stern warning for users of either platform: beware of scams looking to separate you from your personal data and your money.

FBI & CISA Warn Iowans Not to Let Themselves Be Scammed

Gmail and Outlook users are being warned by the FBI & CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) to be smart.

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The program these hackers are using is called Medusa, which was originally identified in June 2021. Since February of this year, there have already been 300 victims.

What the program will do is attempt to gain unauthorized access to systems access to various computer systems, encrypt data, then demand a ransom, usually with a 48-hour deadline for the victim to respond.

Thus far, it appears the jackets are targeting people in certain fields:

Medical
Education
Legal
Insurance
Technology
Manufacturing

If you are the victim of Medusa ransomware, you could face multiple extortion attempts.

Be Smart: Tips to Keep Ransomware Away

The FBI and CISA have issued tips to keep this, or any ransomware, off your computer and work network.

Keep Systems Updated: Ensure your operating systems, software, and firmware are patched and up to date to close known vulnerabilities. CISA+1CISA+1
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA to add an extra layer of security, making unauthorized access more difficult.
Be Cautious with Emails: ALWAYS exercise caution with unsolicited emails, especially those containing links or attachments, to avoid phishing attempts. Beware of messages you're interacting with.
Regular Data Backups: Maintain offline backups of critical data to facilitate recovery in case of an attack.
Network Segmentation: Segment networks to restrict lateral movement and contain potential threats.