Net faces new virus threat

A massive new virus outbreak is threatening to cripple the internet.

Experts claim the MyDoom virus is spreading far faster than even Sobig-F, which last year infected more than 22 million machines and paralysed the web for days.

In one hour last night, more than 19,500 copies of the virus were detected. Both home users and businesses are being targeted.

Once a machine has been infected, the virus sends itself to every email address it can find there. It also installs an electronic back door, allowing hackers to take control of the computer. Experts say the huge amount of email created could clog up internet servers.

It is believed the virus, also known as Novarg, is aimed at bringing down the website of computer firm SCO, which is demanding millions of users pay licensing fees for the free Linux software.

Anti-virus software makers are today scrambling to update their software to cope.

MyDoom emails have a random subject, or contain the words hello, hi, test or mail server system. They also contain an attachment, which must not be opened. Anti-virus software must be installed to remove MyDoom infection.