Computer users warned vs "naked Prince Harry" scams

Following a scandal involving naked photos of Britain's Prince Harry, computer users were warned against potential cyberscams exploiting the curiosity surrounding the incident.

 

Sophos said cybercriminals have had a long track record of exploiting breaking celebrity news stories, ranging from Michael Jackson and Amy Winehouse's deaths and Rihanna's sex videos.

 

"There are too many examples to count. And it wouldn't be a surprise at all if some similar scams popped up around Prince Harry's latest hijinx," it said in a blog post.

 

It said cybercriminals may plant malware or lure computer users to malicious sites by pretending to be videos or news items about the scandal.

 

Sophos advised them to get their news from legitimate news websites.

 

"Don't be too quick to click on a link shared with you via Facebook or Twitter, because it may take your browser somewhere dangerous, or you may be asked to install a fake video codec designed to infect your computer," it warned.

 

Sophos' warning came after celebrity-oriented website TMZ posted what appeared to be images of Prince Harry caught playing "strip billiards" with party girls in a Las Vegas hotel suite.

 

"There's no doubt that Prince Harry is popular with young women, and even if the third-in-line to the British throne isn't your cup of ginger-infused tea there are plenty of internet users who may feel tempted to see what all the fuss is about ... If you're one of those people, please be careful," Sophos said. — RSJ/TJD, GMA News