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Writer's pictureBurton Kelso, Tech Expert
Jul 234 min read

How to Avoid CrowdStrike Linked Phishing Attacks



The global computer outage triggered by a CrowdStrike software update has created a perfect opportunity for cybercriminals to attack. In the aftermath of this disruption affecting Windows computers globally, cybercrooks are launching phishing campaigns These malicious criminals are targeting individuals and organizations desperate for information on how to quickly restore computers, tricking them into clicking on links offering updates or fixes for CrowdStrike-related issues. Here's what you need to know.


 The outages started at 1:20 AM ET on Friday when CrowdStrike began rolling out updates to its Falcon security software that protects Windows hosts. Screens around the world began to display the dreaded Blue Screen of Death. As banks, airlines, 911 emergency communications, medical centers, and almost every organization running Windows computers with CrowdStrike Falcon attempt to recover from this incident, criminals are now attempting to offer fake help.


How to protect you or your business.

Cybercriminals are always quick to take advantage of tech incidents like this massive Windows disruption caused by CrowdStrike. You always need to security and privacy into your own hands by making sure your technology is resilient as possible to attacks.


Avoid clicking links in any text or email related to the global disruption. Phishing attacks with links are how most people and organizations get hacked. Always double-check emails to make sure the information is correct. If you're unsure, don't click on links to verify. Give me a call or talk to your favorite cyber expert to make sure the information is correct.


Watch out for those phone calls too. Tech support call scams are still a thing. Criminals will call out of the blue to make you think something is wrong with your devices. Remember, tech support companies don't call out of the blue to alert you of a problem with your computer. If you think you have a Crowdstrike-related problem, call your trusted IT professional to help.


How to recover from the CrowdStrike Blue Screen of Death outage.

If you have a Windows-based computer or laptop experiencing trouble, there are alternative workarounds to help you fix your computer. CrowdStrike is still working to restore computers, but they have offered the following steps that can be taken if your Windows computer is still having trouble.


  • Reboot the computer to allow it to download the reverted file. If the host crashes again, then:

  • Boot Windows into Safe Mode or the Windows Recovery Environment. Note: Putting the host on a wired network (as opposed to WiFi) and using Safe Mode with Networking can help.

  • Navigate to the %WINDIR%\System32\drivers\CrowdStrike directory

  • Locate the file matching “C-00000291*.sys”, and delete it.

  • Boot the computer normally. Note: If your computer has a Bitlocker-encrypted drive, it may require a recovery key.

 

Hopefully, this will give you tips to help you stay safe from Crowdstrike phishing attacks and recover your computer if

Hopefully, this will give you tips to help you reduce your risks when shopping on Prime Day.  If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm always available.


Looking for More Useful Tech Tips? Our Tuesday Tech Tips Blog is released every Tuesday. If you like video tips, we LIVE STREAM new episodes of 'Computer and Tech Tips for Non-Tech People' every Wednesday at 1:00 pm CST on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Technology product reviews are posted every Thursday. You can view previous episodes on our YouTube channel.


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Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone.


Need computer or technology help? If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. Our team of friendly tech experts organization can help you with any IT needs you might have. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829.


Please share this with your friends and family! If you found this post useful, would you mind helping me out by sharing it? Just click one of the handy social media sharing buttons below.



Looking for More Useful Tips Tips?

My Tuesday Tech Tips Blog is released every Tuesday. If you like video tips, I LIVE STREAM new episodes of 'Computer and Tech Tips for Non-Tech People' every Wednesday at 1:00 pm CST on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Technology product reviews are posted every Thursday. You can view previous episodes on my YouTube channel.


Sign Up for My Newsletter! Click this link to sign-up and subscribe and you will receive every tip directly in your inbox each week.


Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@burtonkelso.com. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone. 


Need computer or technology help? If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. Our team of friendly tech experts organization can help you with any IT needs you might have. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829. 


Please share this with your friends and family! If you found this post useful, would you mind helping me out by sharing it? Just click one of the handy social media sharing buttons below.


The above content is provided for information purposes only. All information included therein is

subject to change without notice. I am not responsible for any direct or indirect damages, arising from or related to the use of or reliance on the above content.



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