According to a Swiss security blog, a new type of Malware being referred to as “ransomware” is hitting users across Europe, demanding payment for copyright violations.

The malware spreads through an exploit kit known as “Blackhole” , which is usually used by criminals to infect computers through security holes in the browser or third-party plug-ins, such as Java and Adobe Reader. For example, if Java version is not up to date with the latest patches, the downloaded file will exploit the software weakness by downloading the trojan to the PC and then running it. Once the PC gets infected by the malware, the user will receive a message on the screen saying that the computer has been locked for illegally downloading pirated music.

The message further says that “to unlock your computer and to avoid other legal consequences, your are obligated to pay a release fee of 50 pounds (around $80).” The directions instruct the user to submit payment using an online payment system called Paysafecard. The message tries deceive users by looking official with a logo of the Metropolitan Police (UK) at the top.

This “Ransomeware” has been targeting users in the U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands.

According to abuse.ch , the criminal behind this campaign appears to speak German, since the local URLs used in the scam are all in German.While the messages are written in the native language of the intended victims of each country.

For more detailed information you can check the full article on abuse.ch