Computer Virus Plot Arrests

Cyber crime is on the increase as the following recent Sky News article describes a recent security breach in the UK aimed at businesses and consumers personal data.

“A plot to steal bank details of tens of thousands of computer users has been foiled by Scotland Yard’s cyber-crime detectives.

A gang had used the ZeuS or Zbot virus to infect computers and download data, including bank account numbers, credit card passwords and other personal information.

The data was then forwarded to the hackers’ own computer server, which has now been frozen.

Police do not know if money had already been removed from accounts, or whether the stolen infomation was sold on, but the immediate threat has now been removed.

Those victims identified by investigators have been told they were hacked.

A British man and woman, both aged 20, were arrested in Manchester and have been bailed while detectives assess the damage.

The arrests are the first in Europe connected with a global law enforcement battle against criminals using the ZeuS virus.

Detective Superintendent Charlie McMurdie, head of the Yard’s e-crime unit, said: “The ZeuS trojan is a very sophisticated computer programme that has been used around the world to infect or access personal information. The potential financial harm it can cause is huge.

“The arrests represent a considerable breakthrough in our increasing efforts to combat online criminality.”

Police are advising computer users to run and keep updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software.

They should be cautious when opening attachments or following email links.

Detectives also suggest using personal firewalls and general common sense, such as disconnecting terminals from the internet when not in use.”

If you have any security concerns relating to your computer systems or networks please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team on 0845 180 0000 for advice.