The ransomware is distributed through an email, which displays IRS and FBI emblems. The email includes a message asking targets to download a fake FBI questionnaire, which, when selected, proceeds to download ransomware.
The IRS and the FBI recommended targets do not pay the ransom demand. The IRS also emphasized it does not contact individuals via email, text message or social media to discuss personal tax issues.
“This is a new twist on an old scheme,” IRS Commissioner John Koskinen said in a statement, according to The Sacramento Bee. “People should stay vigilant against email scams that try to impersonate the IRS and other agencies that try to lure you into clicking a link or opening an attachment. People with a tax issue won’t get their first contact from the IRS with a threatening email or phone call.”
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