Malware-laden spam promises pop videos

Security experts have warned internet users about malware hidden in spam emails claiming to offer new music videos from a number of pop stars.

The wave of malicious emails purports to offer links to new music videos, and includes subject lines such as 'awesome new video' and 'cool video is out'.

Musical artists referred to in the emails include Beyoncé, Kelly Clarkson, Rihanna, The Eagles, Foo Fighters, R Kelly and Velvet Revolver.

Security firm Sophos warned that clicking on a link inside an infected email will send surfers to a webpage containing a malicious script and a Trojan horse designed to turn the user's PC into a zombie.

"Earlier this week hackers were pretending that their emails pointed to a YouTube video, and before that they posed as e-cards or breaking news stories," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos.

"What is clear is that they will keep on adopting new disguises to try and infect the Windows computers of innocent surfers."