If you use MSN messenger, do not accept files--even from friends and family, at least for the time being. Monitoring companies have been tracking a fast-spreading Trojan virus today that turns infected computers into "bots" able to be hijacked on demand.

Here is what you should be looking for:< p>

Since the nature of the Trojan is that it gets access to the infected computer's passwords, address books, and other personal information, it is able to spoof the computer owner's identity and spread the virus by appearing as a harmless photo file.

As with any computer virus, the best and safest way to deal with it is to not put yourself in a position to become infected. Ensure you have good anti-virus software on your computer. There are programs available now that scan attachments coming across your IM just like it does e-mail.