Computer game virus poses data risk
15/05/2008 11:18:21
Gamers downloading illegal copies of hit console release Grand Theft Auto IV are exposing their systems to viruses, according to an industry expert.
"Trojan" viruses, which target personal data held on computer systems allowing it to be stolen, are being released over the internet disguised as cheat codes, soundtracks and full versions of the game.
Users are spreading the infections across file-sharing networks.
Former hacker John Safa, chief technical officer of software security company DriveSentry, found evidence of the viruses a mere two minutes after logging on.
He said criminals were taking advantage of interest in the game to "generate chaos as quickly as they can".
"People are exploiting the popularity of Grand Theft Auto IV in a way which could bring mayhem to the Internet," he added.
"Such computer viruses have the potential to wipe out or steal sensitive information such as a user's bank details or wipe out important files."
Grand Theft Auto IV, the latest instalment of the popular series, entered shops on April 29th 2008,
The controversial game has attracted criticism over its explicit use of violence and bad language.
