Cyberciminals are using malware embedded into emails that will freeze your computer files until a ransom is paid.

Many small businesses have fallen victim to this malicious code that locks up your computer files and are not "freed" until a ransom is paid.

This malware is typically embedded into an email, that, when opened, encrypts your information and files and locks it up. Then a ransom note pops up on your screen demanding $400 or less within the next 72 hours to unlock the data.

The ransom is set low so that a big percentage of those violated pay it rather than spend the thousands of hours and dollars to disengage the code on their own.

Victims are told to pay either by Bitcoin or by a MoneyGram gift card and typically within 30 minutes after the payment is made, the computer files are released. Apparently the locking does not compromise or destroy any of the computer files, but it does put them in disarray. This means you will have to spend hours re-sorting your files and documents.

About 30% of victims pay to regain their data. This crime is growing rapidly and the criminals have even started "franchising" the malware out! They sell the virus to other fraudsters along with the release code. Renting out these "kits" for up to $500 a month can return as uch as $50,000 a month to criminals.

Now, more than ever it is very important to practice computer safety on all of your computers and devices. Do not open attachments from unknown senders and most importantly, make the small investment in anti-virus software for your systems.