Police asking Calgarians to be vigilant about ransomware attacks

Calgary police are warning you to take precautions following a global ransomware attack that began Friday.

They said while there have been no reported cases locally related to the crippling WannaCry ransomware, users should secure their personal data and follow tips including never opening attachments in emails sent from people you don’t know and keeping your antivirus and other software up to date.

“As technology evolves, it’s important for citizens to be aware how their devices and data could be vulnerable,” said CPS Cyber/Forensics Unit Staff Sergeant Cory Dayley. “Quite often there are simple things that can be done to protect against a cyberattack. Unfortunately once data has already been comprised, it is difficult to restore and the loss can have an enormous impact on the victim.”

Meanwhile, the Government of Saskatchewan said it appears to have been targeted by a malicious cyberattack Monday. However, it does not appear to be related the ransomware attack that locked down organizations in 150 countries.

The Calgary Police Service would like to pass along the following tips:

For personal computers:
o Never click links or open attachments in emails sent to you by someone you don’t know.
o Only install trusted software.
o Always keep your operating systems, antivirus and other software up to date. Cybercriminals will often take advantages in weaknesses that exist in old versions of software.
o Keep a regular backup of your data on a separate, removable hard drive.
o Install reputable antivirus software on all of your devices including mobile phones and tablets.
o Secure your home Wi-Fi with a password.
oIf you do become a victim, report it to police by calling 403-266-1234.

For businesses:
o Train all of your employees in safe internet practices, including data storage, visiting unsecure websites, and clicking links or opening attachments in emails.
o Conduct regular data backups that is stored in a place not connected to the network, such as a cloud or removable media.
o Restrict administration privileges to users who require them for their job.
o Use a reputable security software suite.
o Use application whitelisting to help prevent malicious software and unapproved programs from running.
o Make sure all software, including antivirus, is up to date on all computers and devices.
o Develop a business continuity plan and incident response plan.
o If you do become a victim, report it to police by calling 403-266-1234.

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