Businesses urged to take steps against new computer viruses

The National Crime Agency (NCA) has urged businesses and computer users to take urgent steps to protect themselves from a new wave of powerful computer viruses which have the potential to empty bank accounts and could cost the economy millions of pounds.

Action already taken by the NCA to combat the threat has given the UK public a unique two-week opportunity to safeguard themselves against two distinct but associated forms of malicious software - or malware - known as GOZeuS and CryptoLocker.

Computer users can protect themselves by making sure security software is installed and updated, by running scans and checking that computer operating systems and applications are up to date.

The NCA’s alert is part of one of the largest industry and law enforcement collaborations attempted to date.