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US - Jackson
Internet viruses exploit Jackson's death
Article published on the 2009-07-02 Latest update 2009-07-05 07:49 TU
The email message encouraging users to download a computer virus.
(Picture: Sophos)
Information technology security firm Sophos issued an alert for a computer virus which is being spread via email, which claims to contain secret songs and pictures of Michael Jackson.
Sophos issued the alert on Thursday in a blog posting details of the virus.
The email, giving as its subject “Remembering Michael Jackson” was sent from an address claiming to originate from sarah@michaeljackson.com. If the attached file is opened, it infects the host computer and begins to send the virus onto other internet users.
The attached file, named “Michael songs and pictures.zip”, says it contains secret songs and photos of the King of Pop. But instead it exploits fans’ grief to infect users’ machines.
Experts from Sophos warn computers users to delete the email immediately and note that the malware is also capable of spreading itself via USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices, such as memory sticks.
Sophos have issued additional warnings about similar threats. Another email attack originating from Italy encourages users to click on a link to view a video demonstrating the truth about Jackson’s death.
The hyperlink takes users to a site, which looks like Youtube, but instead forces unsuspecting internet surfers to download a virus.
