Okay, first off, do not panic, It is a big problem but only if you let it become a problem.
Here are some extracts from a website today - I will then put my spin on it and you can take the steps you feel are needed.
The 'Gameover Zeus' virus has been temporarily disabled after the police launched attacks on the servers of the criminals behind the 'malware'.
But experts warn that computer users have only two weeks to protect their computer.
How do you get the Gameover Zeus computer virus? The virus installs itself on your computer when you click on a link from an unsolicited website or on a website. It will then send emails to other people from your computer - without your knowledge - allowing it to spread rapidly across the internet.
What can the virus do?
The virus will track everything you do on your computer, waiting for an opportunity to steal personal details, such as online banking information and passwords. These will then be sent back to the criminal network, who could use this information to gain access to your bank account.
If the software does not get enough information, it can lock your computer and hold it to ransom, demanding one Bitcoin - around £300 - to unlock it. If you don't pay, they can delete everything on your computer, including all photos and music.
How do I know if I have the virus?The National Crime Agency has warned that the computers of more than 15,000 people in the UK are already infected with the virus. Most of these will have been contacted by their internet service provider.
How long have I got to protect myself?
Police have taken down the criminal network's servers, temporarily disabling the virus. They estimate it will take them around two weeks to build it back up again.
Should I change my passwords?The National Crime Agency has advised changing passwords, as original passwords may have been compromised during the infection. It is also worth checking bank and credit card statements for any irregularities.
Extracts thanks to LBC.
My take on the situation.
First off if you are running windows Xp then you need to update to a new system, there really is no holding back now.
If you have had your computer serviced or supplied by me then you will have Microsoft security essentials installed on it ( windows Vista and 7 ) and windows defender ( windows 8 & 8.1 ). This Is what I use, simply make sure the tick is green and if it isn't then open the programme and do what is asked and also run a FULL scan. If you see something different to the above then make sure it is up to date and if it has expired then please all me with regards to your options.
Do you think your computer has been running slow lately ? Strange messages asking you to click to repair problems ? Low memory reports and your computer taking a long time to load and shut down ? If you have one or all of these issues then you may already be infected with various virus's etc. Please call me asap to ask about removal.
Change your passwords, do not use the same password on any accounts that have access to buy goods.
Do not use a slight variant with passwords, change them and make them different.
Do not store your passwords on a file in your computer, store them away from your pc.
Most important is not to open any email attachment's or links in your emails. If you are expecting a parcel or delivery, simply go to the web site direct and log into your account to follow it's progress.
Type the full address of the bank that you use in the browser, do not use short cuts or links from websites. You will notice I have asked you to type my address into the browser direct and not use the link I have included with it ( did you type it ? )
Common sense is the greatest weapon against this very real and very harmful threat. However, everyday we are all faced with these problems but this is now highlighted due to the potential problems and size of the virus's.
If you have any questions then please feel free to email me or call me direct. I have set aside five days in the next three weeks and this includes weekends to get peoples pc's up to date, to service and if needed wipe your computer and reinstall to ensure there are no problems.
The problems are real, but they always have been, don't panic, just give me a call.
Neil Bevis
01473 829552
07815 795662