Cryptolocker ransomware, which is “almost immune” to anti-virus protection, is infecting networks across the region at an alarming rate. 

Users hit by the virus have been locked out of their own documents, pictures and emails until they send money to overseas criminals. 

Branch manager at Veritech technology firm Leon Ware said Russian and Nigerian hackers had demanded up to $60,000 from businesses.

“We have had a lot of businesses approach us already infected with the Cryptolocker virus, this has definitely been increasing over the past few months.” he said.

“Ransomware is a type of virus that goes through your entire network and encrypts data – pictures, emails, documents, any files it can access – which are then locked with an unbreakable key.

“After your data is encrypted a pop-up will appear on your screen, demanding a ransom be paid for the key to unlock your data.”

Mr Ware said computers contract ransomware viruses when users open phishing emails and download their attachments. 

“They are fake emails that appear to be from a legitimate sender such as a utilities provider or financial institution,” he said.

“A properly configured network environment can help minimise the impact of ransomware attacks, but ultimately user education is key to avoid getting infected in the first place.” 

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC) is among those who were rocked by the ransomware virus. 

Chief Scott Sanbrook said the MTC had put a number of processes in place to prevent another attack after the first came with a huge cost.