CryptoLocker, the notorious ransomware that shot to prominence in 2013 is back and this time it is targeting gamers.

Reports suggest that the new malware targets several popular games including World of Warcraft, League of Legends and Minecraft.

What is ransomware?

The whole premise of ransomware as an effective malware attack is removing the victim’s access to important or personal files.  It encrypts certain files on your system and then extorts a ransom to unlock them.

Why is malware targeting gamers?

Gamers have become targets for malware writers as they can spend hundreds of hours playing and enjoying a game. Once the game files have been encrypted, the victim will lose access to these files, along with all the progress and achievements they may have unlocked.

How can you stay safe?

There are many things that you can do to help keep your online accounts, including gaming accounts secure.

Don’t share accounts

This is simple advice, and one that game companies often reiterate. No matter how long you’ve been playing with someone online that you don’t know in person, never hand over your details or control of your account. This recent example is enough to discourage you!

Two factor authentication

Just like with other important online accounts such as banking, many online gaming services have introduced two-factor authentication as an additional layer of account security; Blizzard being one of them.

If you’re a gamer, investigate whether or not the games and services you enjoy offer this form of protection.

Download security software

Having up-to-date security software is one of the most important measures we can all take to protect ourselves from malware and online fraud. It can check for malicious links and attachments and help protect your machine from malware.