Skip to main content

WannaCrypt ransomware: Microsoft release security updates to protect Windows users

Over the last few days, a form of ransomware known as WannaCrypt has wreaked havoc across 150 different countries and countless organisations, including the NHS. The virus is still spreading, encrypting files and holding them to ransom. 

Microsoft have now released updates for affected Windows systems. If you have Windows Update enabled, this security update should have been installed. If you're unsure as to whether this update has installed or you have Windows Update disabled, you can find the full list of security fixes for affected systems at the bottom of this statement from Microsoft. Just click the version of Windows that you're running to download the fix.

Where did the ransomware come from, and how does it work?
The bug was previously used by the NSA, as a way to hijack computers and spy on their targets. It was stolen from the organisation and published online last month, where it was immediately exploited by unscrupulous individuals. 

WannaCrypt is able to spread far faster than other viruses because it can move around a network by itself. This means if one computer in your office is infected, the virus can infect every other vulnerable computer; you don't need to click a dodgy attachment in an email.

Once it's on your computer, your files will be encrypted. You're then presented with a lock screen with a countdown timer and some terrible English, which promises you can have your files back once you send the hackers £230 worth of Bitcoin.

Is my computer vulnerable to this kind of attack?
WannaCrypt is targeting computers running Windows with a certain security flaw. If you're running an older version of Windows (Windows XP, Windows 8 and Windows Server 2003), you could be at risk from this attack as you no longer receive security updates from Microsoft. 

PCs running older versions of Windows are particularly vulnerable to ransomware and viruses, as they are no longer supported by Microsoft and therefore become targets for hackers. Although Microsoft have released a fix for this version of WannaCrypt, they are unlikely to continue doing this for future attacks. If possible, we recommend you upgrade to Windows 10 or another system which continues to receive support.

What should I do next? 
If you've been infected, contact your IT support team immediately. Do not attempt to pay the ransom; there is no guarantee that your files will be decrypted, and the ransomware may have spread further than your machine.

Make sure that you have installed the latest security updates from Microsoft, particularly if you are running an unsupported versions of Windows or have Windows Update turned off. You can read Microsoft's full statement and install the updates here.

To protect your PC from further attacks, we highly recommend using firewalls and anti-virus software, and updating them regularly. Replace old servers and workstations, after discussing this with your IT support team. We'd also advise you to enable Windows Update, and perform regular system backups. Find out more about protecting your business from ransomware here.


Worried about ransomware affecting your business, or need help updating your system? Give us a call on 0191 482 0444
 


The Transcendit Way

Transcendit understand that when you choose to work with us, whether we're taking care of your IT, app or web development, you're trusting us with part of your business. So whether we're looking after your computers, phone systems or servers we always do things 'the Transcendit way'.

The whole of our team adhere to the same values, beliefs and policies - the principles that were written when Transcendit first formed in 2000. Whether you come to us for cloud services or recovery backup you can be confident that you'll always receive the same excellent service.

The Transcendit way outlines how we do business; following the same straightforward principles with every client and customer, regardless of how big or small they may be.

That means we get to know you and your business. We offer you a friendly, professional and efficient service, and we'll always be honest with you.
We understand that not everybody speaks fluent IT, so we try to explain things in a way that is simple and clear. We always spend as much time as is necessary explaining things to you.
If you need to talk to us about something, no matter how insignificant, we are only ever a phone call away – and we’re never too busy to make you a cup of tea and have a sit down with you in person.
We understand how frustrating it can be when things are late. When we schedule an appointment with you, we are there when you’re expecting us. If something prevents us from getting there, we always call you in advance to let you know.
Sometimes things can go wrong, but we never lie to you or try to cover something up. If things go askew we tell you what’s happened and how we plan to prevent it affecting your business.
We want you to continuously benefit from working with us. We regularly discuss your business and make suggestions for improving systems and processes wherever we can – but we never try to push you into a purchase.
When we quote a fixed price, that's always the amount we charge – you won’t find any nasty surprises on a bill from us. If you are paying by time and materials, we inform you if our approximations could change.
We understand the importance of privacy for your business and your customers. We respect the confidentiality of your data, and we will never pass on your information to third parties.
We appreciate it when you take the time to give us feedback. A system called CustomerSure records our client's responses, so you can trust that our reviews are from real people.
Find out what they're saying here.
Paul is always more than helpful...we'd be lost without him! Angela Fenwick, Streetwise

Based on 12075 reviews our customers rate us 9.8/10. Reviews and ratings by Customersure. 09-October-2024

Transcendit are proud sponsors of CHUF, the Children's Heart Unit Fund.

Transcendit is a Living Wage employer
Transcendit is a Microsoft Gold certified partner
VMWARE partner
Vipre partner
IPCortex partner
WithSecure partner
DELL partner
Barracuda partner
Veeam partner
N-Able partner