
Photo: VCG
It seems like everyone in China is accepting WeChat payments these days, from street vendors to fast-fashion brands – and now, malicious software designers who have taken your computer hostage.
At least 20,000 computers in China have been affected by a ransomware virus that only accepts payment via WeChat Pay, the semi-official China News Service reported Tuesday. The virus encrypts stored files and accesses passwords to popular sites like Taobao and email provider 126, then demands a payment of 110 yuan ($16) in order for users to get their data back.
Tencent and Huorong, an anti-virus software provider, have already updated their security systems to intercept the virus, China News Service reported.
Related: China's Battle Over Virtual Wallets Intensifies