Hackers target drink awareness website

An alcohol industry website aimed at tackling binge drinking was the worse for wear when it launched today - after it was closed down by hackers.

The internet service, which allows people to check their own alcohol intake against Government guidance, should been available this morning as part of a drive to promote sensible consumption.

Britain's largest brewer Scottish & Newcastle started rolling out cigarette packet-style warnings on bottles and cans promoting the site, but customers have been unable to access the advice.

Responsible drinking organisation the Portman Group, which funds the www.drinkaware.co.uk site, said the failure left them with a major headache.

"There were problems last night and also this morning, at first we thought it was simply technical difficulties, but it seems to have been more than that," said

"Some of those who have been able to log on have reported that they have suffered computer viruses.

"We will be very disappointed if we confirm that it has been targeted by hackers."
He said that the site should be available again from this evening.

It features an alcohol unit calculator using real brands and serving sizes which allows users to pinpoint the real number of units they drink per week.

The web pages also feature a self-assessment test for those worried about their drinking habits.