Warning! MSN Instant Messenger Worm Alert

There is a particularly nasty MSN Messenger worm going around that sends you an IM appearing to be from your friend or other contact that says "Hey is this your picture", or “Wanna see my pictures before i send em to facebook?” or something similar. Here's an example:

DO NOT CLICK THE LINK!

The message and link is being sent from a computer that is infected with a computer worm. Clicking the link takes you to a Web site that automatically downloads the worm and infects your computer. Now on your computer, the worm automatically sends the message to everyone in your address book. This worm is smart enough to recognize the language your computer is set to (English, German, French) and use that language when sending the worm to your friends.

Beyond compromising the contacts in your address book, worms can also damage your computer. For example, it could install other malicious code that copies information from your computer, tracks your online activities to steal your identity, or takes control of your computer to use for other online crimes.

In addition to avoiding the links, take the time to make sure all your security software (such as antivirus and antispyware programs) and your operating system are completely up-to-date. (If you're using Microsoft Windows, go to Microsoft Update for the latter.)

Linda