ISPs need to do more to tackle major cyber-attack

Warnings about the impending cyber-attack have gone unheeded and more must be done to tackle the threat of an infection, according to the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Hugh Boyes, IET cyber security expert said: "Based on the latest statements from the National Crime Agency it would appear that their campaign to encourage computer users to scan for and remove GoZeus and CryptoLocker infections has been only partially successful.

"The IET believes that more could be done to tackle existing infections. Internet Service Providers (ISPs), for example, could restrict internet access to infected machines or Internet Protocol addresses by redirecting users to a page with information on infection removal. They could also provide telephone technical support to customers to help them to remove the malware.

"A joined-up approach of law enforcement working with the ISPs to reduce the number of infected computers would benefit everyone."

Useful tips from the IET include:

• Install internet security software from companies listed on Get Safe Online
• Do not open emails unless you are 100 per cent certain that they are authentic, i.e. you know the sender and the email is from them
• Make sure your internet security software is up-to-date and switched on at all times
• Make sure your Windows operating system has the latest Microsoft updates applied. If running Microsoft XP, remember that this operating system is no longer being supported and all home and small business users should move onto an alternative operating immediately to reduce the risk of malware infection
• Make sure your software programs have the latest manufacturers' updates applied
• Make sure all of your files including documents, photos, music and bookmarks are backed up on a separate machine
• Never store passwords on your computer in case they are accessed by Gameover Zeus or another aggressive malware program.