Users of Instant messaging programs (IM) such as America Online, Microsoft MSN And Yahoo beware - Wicked gnomes have released  a santa claus worm that tricks users of these IM programs into clicking a link to see a picture of Santa.

What they actually get is a virus payload. A rootkit is installed onto their computer system instead. A rootkit is a software program designed to go undetected by security software. The Santa Claus worm then distributes itself by sending messages to all the victims friends on their IM contact list.

IMlogic is rating the IM.GiftCom.All worm a "medium" security threat.

So, if you're "offered" a picture of Santa this seaonal yuletide when chatting to a friend check with them first that they sent you the link, it could just be a rather nasty cyber gnome up to mischief.

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