{"id":7720,"date":"2016-12-21T12:24:02","date_gmt":"2016-12-21T20:24:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:drivesaversdatarecovery.com\/\/?p=7720"},"modified":"2026-02-25T06:31:55","modified_gmt":"2026-02-25T14:31:55","slug":"popcorn-time-offers-ransomware-victims-reward-for-spreading-virus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drivesaversdatarecovery.com\/en-au\/blog\/popcorn-time-offers-ransomware-victims-reward-for-spreading-virus\/","title":{"rendered":"Popcorn Time Offers Ransomware Victims Reward for Spreading Virus"},"content":{"rendered":"
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By Mike Cobb, Director of Engineering<\/em>
\nAs if the ransomware extortionists haven\u2019t done enough damage already, today we are seeing a scheme in which victims are encouraged to infect their friends\u2019 computers instead of paying the ransom.<\/span>
\nThe new ransomware virus, known as Popcorn Time, offers the infected user the option of spreading the virus to two other users instead of ponying up the ransom money. If the two \u201crecruits\u201d pay the ransom, the referring victim gets his data back for free\u2014at least that\u2019s the theory.<\/span>
\nIn a report from <\/span>Wired<\/span><\/a>, this variant of the ransomware virus may start deleting files if the wrong decryption key information is entered four times.<\/span>
\nOnce installed, the virus searches out and encrypts common types of files found in the default sections of Windows computers\u2014My Documents, My Pictures, Desktop and My Music. The files can only be opened if the user (or the user\u2019s two unsuspecting friends) pays a Bitcoin ransom demand to receive the decryption codes.<\/span>
\nIt\u2019s just an unfortunate coincidence that this newly configured virus\u2014which is still under development by the hackers\u2014shares the same name as the bonafide Popcorn Time application used to stream movie content.<\/span>
\nIf you have a ransomware issue, please contact DriveSavers at 800-440-1904. We may be able to help.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Prevent Ransomware<\/h2>\n

Regularly Update Security Software<\/span><\/h3>\n

Hackers are always exploring computer security measures to find weaknesses and develop ways in. In reaction, security software manufacturers are constantly developing patches and software updates to eliminate threats as they are discovered. If you don\u2019t keep up with software and operating system updates, these known weaknesses remain like open doors inviting criminals into your computer.<\/span>
\nIdentify what firewalls, anti-spam, antivirus, anti-malware and anti-spyware software you have installed and always install updates, as they are made available.<\/span><\/p>\n

Use Strong Passwords<\/span><\/h3>\n

Weak passwords are an easy way for someone to access your personal data. Use proper password techniques that are enforced for all user accounts, including those with remote access to your system. Here are some good tips to follow when creating passwords:<\/span><\/p>\n