Urban myth fronts .exe virus threat

A virus threat called LIFE_STAGES.TXT.SHS has been detected in the wild, according to security experts in the UK.

Several blue chip companies in the UK, US and Australia have reportedly received a text file with an attachment called LIFE_STAGES.TXT.SHS that contains a mass mailing script similar to the 'Love Bug' virus.

The attachment, once opened, executes a script that sends itself to email all addresses in outlook address book, according to Alex Shipp, anti-virus technologist at the virus watchdog MessageLabs. Shipp explained: "Windows hides the SHS file by default so the attachment looks like a harmless file."

Graham Cluely, technical specialist at anti-virus software firm Sophos, told silicon.com: "As long as companies have updated their anti-virus software, there should be no reason for an alert. Network administrators should block all the incoming SHS files altogether."

Experts say the virus started in the US and now has been detected in UK with a familiar message. Shipp said: "The body of the message may contain the text of a familiar electronic chain letter title, 'The Male and Female Stages of Life'. However, the anti-virus companies know how to detect it so there is no reason for major concern."