Internet users across the country are being warned of about a suspicious malware designed to collect information about people and organisations.
According to Symantec, the internet security company who found the bug, say it can take screenshots, control the cursor and steal passwords.
They also say that the malware which is called Regin is highly sophisticated software that has been active since 2008 and may have been created by a national government. It is understood that the software has been used to attack individuals and small businesses as well as private companies, government entities and research institutes. It is thought that Telecom companies have also been attacked by the malware, allowing hackers to gain access to phone calls.
Symantec say the software is highly sophisticated and may have taken months or even years to develop. It is believed that computers can be infected with the software through a number of means including fake internet sites and instant messenger programmes. Symantec also say that it is unusually low-key, meaning that it can be used on a target for several years before being noticed.