ABU DHABI, 28th June, 2017 (WAM) -- The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) advises the users to be aware of the updated version of the ransomware "Petya", which started spreading globally on Tuesday and breached thousands of computers and servers around the world.

''The breach disabled, encrypted, and locked users from accessing their computers without paying a sum of Bitcoin, and that's when a group of hackers developed a new version of the ransomware "Petya"by exploiting the same gap in the operating system Windows, named ExyernalBlue in the SMBv1 protocol. This virus restarts the victim's device, encrypts the Master File Table,and exchanges the Master Boot Record with a series of malicious software instructions that shuts down the device,'' the TRA said in a notification about #Petya virus.

The TRA Computer Emergency Response Team (aeCERT) announced that there hasn't been any reported cases of breach by this virus in the UAE.

To avoid exposure to the virus, the TRA advises individuals to follow these steps:- Always keep a backup copy.

- Avoid opening links and files from an unknown source.

- Use the original anti-virus programmes.

- Update the software of your phone and computer constantly.

- Avoid surfing untrusted sites.

In case of exposure to the virus, the TRA advises the individuals to do the following:- Do not obey the hackers, there is no guarantee that paying the ransom will lead to the decryption of the files.

- If the attacked device is the company's computer, inform the Information Technology Department immediately.

- If the attacked device is your personal laptop, take it to the authorized agent.

- Don't open any untrusted emails- Update the software of all your personal devices This virus changes its signature constantly, so we advise to follow the TRA social media channels(Facebook TheUAETRA, Instagram TheUAETRA, Twitter @THEUAETRA) or TRA website www.TRA.gov.ae to get the latest updates.

Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2017.