Virus hits nine million computers

MORE than nine million computers have been infected by what experts say is one of the fastest spreading computer viruses ever seen.

It leaves Microsoft Windows users vulnerable to digital hijacking, and has already hit computers at the Ministry of Defence and thousands of other firms. The Conficker virus spreads via a security hole in Microsoft's software. Although the firm has issued a patch to plug the digital hole, many firms have not yet installed it.

Experts also today warned the virus could spread by copying itself to USB memory sticks shared between computers, and urged users to use caution.

"This virus is mainly affecting offices, who have not kept their software up to date," said Graham Cluley of computer security firm Sophos.