PC users warned about bank-robbing virus

A stealth computer virus could cost computer users millions of pounds as it empties their bank accounts, experts warned today.

The new virus installs itself invisibly on a user's computer.

Only when they visit a bank website does it spring into action, capturing every key they press, including bank passwords-The Trojan Horse-style virus also captures electronic snapshots of the user's screen.

Experts warned hackers could use it to empty a bank account in seconds.

The virus, known as the Tofger Trojan, has also been used to target customers of online banks including Abbey, Barclays, Cahoot, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest, Nationwide and The Woolwich.

"This could potentially be a very costly problem. It is very sophisticated and we think a large Russian hacking gang is behind it," said Graham Cluley of anti-virus company Sophos. Mr Cluley warned there has recently been an explosion in the number of such attacks on home computers.

The Tofger virus currently hides itself in software downloaded by internet users. However, Mr Cluley warned it could soon be spread by other, simpler methods.