Federal authorities are investigating what they have dubbed an “Internet infection” which holds personal computer files hostage for ransom. This Internet infection is the first known instance of a virus or other malware that gets onto your computer, locks up your files, and then leaves behind a digital ransom note demanding $200 if you ever want to see your files again.

Authorities explain that your files are held hostage by being encrypted by the Internet infection, and the $200 ransom buys the key to the encryption.

A spokesperson for Internet security firm Symantec said that it was like “someone coming into your home, putting your valuables in a safe and not telling you the combination.”

Or like someone…

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