It’s popping up everywhere, and the scary part is it looks like something you can trust from someone you know. Instead, this nasty, fast-spreading malware called Azov can wipe you out.
What is Azov & how does it wipe you out?
What does Azov look like?
Currently, there are two different versions of Azov. They share most of their capabilities, but this newest version uses a different ransom note and file extension for the destroyed file it creates. Here’s what it looks like if you are suckered into allowing this malware onto one of your devices.
credit: Check Point Research
Be careful what you click
Hackers are catching on to the fact that we will likely click to open an online greeting card personally addressed to us. Unfortunately, this might include a digital holiday or birthday card when it comes to Azov.
Should you receive a greeting card from Paperless Post or similar sites, you needn’t worry. However, if you don’t recognize the website and/or the greeting card comes as an attachment, leave that card unopened because the only thing found inside is likely malware or ransomware.
How to protect your devices from malware
1. Update your software and back up your data
While hackers work their hardest to stay up-to-date on the most recent software, keeping the software on your device up to date will make it harder for them to hack into your device. It is critical to ensure you are running the most up-to-date software on all your devices.
For Mac Users
- From the Apple Menu, go to General
- Go to Settings
- Go to Software update
This will give you the option of either manually or automatically updating the software on your device
For PC users
- Click the Start menu
- Click Settings
- Click Windows Update
2. Install a trusted antivirus program
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