Clampi Virus warning

Computer users are being warned of a new virus that is sweeping accross the US and UK,infectiing thousands of computers and stealing money. John Hillman reports.

There are many viruses out there that are a cause of concern but computer users are being warned to be particularly weary of this one.

The Clampi Virus is a Trojan that remains dormant on your PC until you visit one of 4,500 finance related websites. It then activates itself and begins sending you login details to other computers, once your information is obtained criminals will then transfer money to their accounts.

It has already spread across both the UK and US and experts are warning that this is one of the most sophisticated and pervasive threats to PCs that operate on Microsoft Windows.

If you are concerned about the Clampi Virus and want to take steps to avoid infection then make sure that you follow the recommended protocol:

1: Install a comprehensive security solution and make sure that it is kept up to date.

2: Use a credit card, not a debit card, when shopping online.

3: Never click on links to sites contained within unknown or unverified emails, social networking sites or Instant Messaging.

Thankfully the virus is reasonably easy to remove and Norton suggests the following procedure if you suspect that your computer has been affected.

1. Disable System Restore (Windows Me/XP).it.

2. Update the virus definitions.

3. Run a full system scan.

4. Delete any values added to the registry.

5: Change any and all passwords used on that system for any websites.

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Image credit: Howard Lake