China warns of new ransomware virus

The National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center (CVERC) and software company AsiaInfo Wednesday detected the “UIWIX” virus, which is spreading in a similar the way to the “WannaCry” ransomware. (Photo: Marcie Casas/ Flickr)

TIANJIN–Chinese authorities have warned computer users of a new ransomware virus detected abroad.

The National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center (CVERC) and software company AsiaInfo Wednesday detected the “UIWIX” virus, which is spreading in a similar the way to the “WannaCry” ransomware.

“The new virus uses a bug in the Windows operating system, and infects computers by renaming files after encryption,” said Chen Jianmin, standing deputy head of the CVERC. “The renamed files usually carry the extension ‘.UIWIX’.”

No infections have been confirmed in China so far, and the CVERC is undertaking technical analysis on the virus, while keeping an eye on possible infections.

Microsoft has issued a security update to address the vulnerability,Chen said.