A new computer virus called "Reeezak" is on the loose this festive season, anti-virus experts have warned.
US-based Computer Associates International said the malicious worm would arrive as an e-mail calling itself "Happy New Year" in the subject line.
The message text says "Hii, I can't describe my feelings but all i can say is Happy New Year:) bye" and comes with an attachment: "Christmas.exe".
When opened, the attachment has the ability to disable selected keys on the infected user's keyboard and delete all the files found in the Windows System directory, rendering the computer inoperable. The virus replicates by sending itself to everyone in the user's Microsoft Outlook Express address book.
"Holiday-themed threats, such as Reeezak, remind us that computer users should never let their guard down when using the Internet," said Computer Associates anti-virus director Mr Ian Hameroff.
"Be on the lookout for suspicious messages, they may be bearing gifts that you don't want," he warned in a statement released in Hong Kong.
Computer Associates said the destructive worm was also known as W32/Reeezak.Amm, W32/Zacker.Cmm and W32.Maldal.Cmm
AFP