Cohuna man loses thousands in cyber attack

Investigators have been told the first the man knew of it was when he tried to open a document and it was locked with a message asking for cash to release it, which is called ransomware.

The next day, internet banking passwords were reset and a purchase of nearly $6000 was made. 

Sergeant Andrew Rigg of Cohuna police said the victim had been diligent and recognised the issue immediately, limiting his losses.

"It is a timely reminder that all information stored on electronic devices that access the internet are subject to the possibility of such attacks," he said. 

"It is important to remember that you take every step available to you to protect your online information and data, through virus protection, regularly updating your passwords and if a request, or email, or website looks suspect, it probably is."