RCMP warns about ransomware attacks after Kelowna businesses targeted

Businesses in Kelowna have been hit by ransomware attacks, Mounties have warned.

The RCMP said several local firms, including “small mom and pop businesses,” have suffered hacks.

In a ransomware attack, a criminal injects an encryption code which causes the data on a computer to become unusable.

The criminal then demands cash – in Bitcoin – in exchange for a key to unlock the data.

Those who pay do not always receive the key.

The RCMP suggests the following tips to avoid falling victim to an attack:

• Do not answer suspicious emails and do not click on any links in them

• Be cautious of any unsolicited email

• Ensure a backup plan for your data that is consistent and frequent

• Have anti-malware software

• Ensure regular software and system updates/patches as well as frequent system-wide password changes

• Publish and enforce an employee security policy

Those who do fall victim are recommended to do the following:

• Contact your financial institutes

• Contact your local police

• Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 1-888-495-8501 or through the Fraud Reporting System.

• Call Equifax Canada (1-800-465-7166)

• Call TransUnion Canada (1-877-525-3823)

Anyone with any information about crimes of this sort can call the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300.

To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or visit crimestoppers.net.