http://www.today.com/money/nasty-new...pay-8C11511655
this new virus encrypts all your files and you have to pay to get them back (usually $300). It comes in the usual way, as an attachment to an email. NEVER OPEN AN ATTACHMENT unless you know the sender and are expecting the attachment!!!
Virus removal software will get rid of this but your files will still be gone. UNLESS you have backed up your files online or otherwise, then you can remove the malware, and download all your files again. (thumbing your nose at the bad guys)
I have had continuous online backup (free) ever since my first laptop crashed and would not start again. I am a bit paranoid so everything is backed up in TWO places (Dropbox and Mimedia).