Ransomware

is a type of malware that prevents or limits users from having an access to their data by encrypting them. This type of malware forces its victims to pay the ransom through certain online payment methods in order to grant access to the files or data again.
The other technique is targeting the iCloud accounts and using it to remotely lock and change the passcode of the MAC computer using “Find My Mac” feature or remotely locking the IPhone using “Find my IPhone” with a ransom message from the attacker asking for money to provide the victim with the new passcode to access the device again. Below are examples:
icloud-scam3

Recommendations

  • Make sure to use very strong password for your iCloud account.
  • Do not use the same password for different accounts and other websites.
  • Make sure to turn on the “2-Factor Authentication” on your iCloud account that is explained here https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204915
  • Make sure to back up your data.

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For more information:
https://blog.malwarebytes.org/cybercrime/2016/03/an-icloud-scam-that-may-be-worse-than-ransomware/
https://www.troyhunt.com/the-mechanics-of-icloud-hack-and-how/