Ray Dunbar

So if somebody can get in through one of these, is blocking outside access enough until the fix is in? Sounds like a loose hose to me.

Good point. I’d keep the message as-is too. Those headers are like the engine serial number. Easy to miss, hard to get back. One question: is taking a screenshot enough, or should folks also save the email file itself?

I keep hearing folks say to pay the ransom, but that sounds like pouring gas on a fire. If files are locked on a Windows PC, is there any real way to check for a decryptor without making it worse?

Yep, I’ve seen junk like that too. It looks close enough to fool you if you’re not paying attention. I just delete it and check the sender real careful. Why do they always make it look so legit?

I tried the freeze, but it still ain’t fixed. I’m seeing a few things I don’t like on my bank statement, like small charges I never made. What should I try next?

If I freeze my credit, does that stop new accounts dead in their tracks, or do I still need to watch my bank and credit report too? Seems like a lot to keep track of.

If I report a scammer, do I do that with the police first or with the bank? I got a bad feeling about one email on my Windows PC, and I’m not sure where to start.

Good on you. That’s the right move. Recovery codes can be a pain if you lose them, like a loose belt on an old truck. Did you save them somewhere offline?

I’d start with changing the passwords and checking recent sign-ins. Then I’d look at Windows Security and update the PC. If it was a business, I’d want every account checked fast. What a mess.

Ring them right away. Don’t wait. Bank transfer can be a dead end sometimes, but the sooner you call, the better chance they have to look at it. Also check your Windows laptop for any odd emails or messages tied to it.