A worm that locks Windows PC users out of their computers unless they pay a $200 ransom is rapidly spreading via Skype.
Once it has secreted itself into a machine, the malware tricks further victims into installing it by using the Microsoft-owned VoIP software to send messages that read "lol is this your new profile pic?" The malicious missives, dispatched to the infected user's contacts, include a shortened goO.gl link to a zip file hosted by Hotflie.com.
This archive contains an executable that,
antivirus biz Sophos says, installs a variant of the Dorkbot worm and recruits the compromised machine into a botnet army.
Left to its own devices, the worm may switch to its ransomware mode, locking the punter out of his or her computer and inform them that all their files have been encrypted and will be deleted unless a $200 payoff is forthcoming.
