How a Hong Kong group seeks to help city fight cyberattacks
Details on new website and Facebook page are available to users, following ransomware wave in May
An increasing threat of cyberattacks in Hong Kong has prompted a government-backed body to provide free tools and resources to help businesses and the public guard against ransomware.
The information includes links to free computer programs, reports on latest attacks, and free webinars. Details on other seminars hosted by various IT companies to combat ransomware are also available.
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Ransomware is a form of malware that allows hackers to encrypt files after unsuspecting users install malicious software on their devices by downloading and opening infected files or apps.
Prompt dissemination of ransomware intelligence and security advice can go a long way
“As shown in the WannaCry ransomware attack in May this year, prompt dissemination of ransomware intelligence and security advice can go a long way to minimise the adverse impact of such attacks,” council general manager Wilson Wong said.
Last year, there were 309 incidents of ransomware attacks in Hong Kong. In the first six months of 2017, there have been 140 cases – 40 of them involving WannaCry.
The May cyberattack lasted only a few days, but even after it ended, HKCERT suspected some 4,000 Hong Kong computers were still infected with WannaCry.
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Almost 90 per cent of computers worldwide run on the Microsoft Windows operating system. The technology giant is partnering with HKCERT to provide tools and training for the fight against ransomware.
Barry Kong, data crimes unit analyst for Microsoft Hong Kong, said it was essential to install the latest version of the operating system, including updates and patches.
“The most important thing is to update the software. Windows 10 is the most secure OS so companies should upgrade,” he added.
Free anti-malware tools are currently not available for smartphones through HKCERT, but they may be available at a later time, Wong said.
