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FTC, FBI issue warning about virus locking important files

WASHINGTON — The Federal Trade Commission and the FBI are warning consumers and businesses about a malware program that holds the files on your computer for ransom.  

It's called "Cryptolocker" and it won't let you access your personal documents, photos and files until you pay up.  

They even send you a ransom note. 

Channel 9's Stephanie Coueignoux reported on this story on Feb. 6.  Read her whole report here.

Since September, the creators of this virus have made $30 million from businesses that have paid to re-gain access to their own files.

The harmful software is spread mostly through email.  

Channel 9 is reaching out to the FTC about this cyber threat and its new warning.