pedrog, thanks for the links.

Seems my version of the cryptolocker virus is still not old enough to have a utility to decrypt the files.  One word of sage advice I found, was to make sure to keep a copy of the encrypted files, so that when/if a fix is available in the future you can run it and get your files back if for some reason paying the ransom doesn't work.

That won't help me, I'm afraid as I can't wait around for this particular data....

Now, I'm hoping you all can clear up something for me.

Does it matter what "service" I use to buy my bitcoins?  Certain ones are only available in certain locales, like "Trucoin" for example is available to buy bitcoin on credit in the US, but will I be able to use those bitcoins to pay the ransom if "Trucoin" is not available whereever this kidnapper lives?

Help me fill in these blanks, I don't understand and since they are not refundable I do not want to end up with $700 I can't use to pay the ransom.

Thanks again to all.

TB