With Windows 7 going out of support in January, cybercriminals are taking the opportunity to send out fake emails from “Microsoft” asking you to click to update your Windows system. They usually have a subject line like "Install Latest Microsoft Windows Update now!" or "Critical Microsoft Windows Update!"
If a user clicks on the link “to update their software,” ransomware will be installed, which is a type of malware that encrypts all the files on a computer. The attacker then says that for a fee, usually in BitCoin, they will send you a digital key to unlock your data.
Microsoft does not send their software updates to customers in emails – these messages are a scam. As always, exercise caution with emails that ask you to click something. If you believe you have received a suspicious email, contact the IT Support Center at 970-754-4357 (U.S.) or 604-935-5500 (CAN), or email itsupportcenter@vailresorts.com.