Been downloading and now the FBI want a word?

So, you've been tinkering on Kazaa, treated yourself to Christina Aguilera's latest tune and now there's an email from the FBI saying they've got some evidence on you and they'll see you in court. Should you be worried? Yes – but not for the reasons you might think. The email is a piece of malware from a virus writer looking to mess with your machine.

The email, which uses the subject line 'Your IP was logged', tells the recipient that the FBI have been tracking them and have found illegal downloads and they can expect to be charged with in the next few days.

It goes on to say that evidence has been compiled against the email recipient and it's all in an attachment.

Suffice to say, even if you've got more downloads on your machine than iTunes, don't touch it with a bargepole. It's a virus.

While the email taps into the public fear about being caught out for illegal downloading, there are telltale signs that it's the work of a virus writer and not the rozzers. Like so much malware – anyone remember the odd grammar in the 'Mary' virus porn pics? - the body of the email is riddled with spelling mistakes and dodgy use of language.

The erroneous English in question warns the recipient they'll be 'indicated' (the writer means indicted) for their crimes and directs users to contact the Feds with the line 'You get more detailed information by the Federal Bureau of Investigation'.

So remember – illegal downloading might get you into trouble. Opening suspicious attachments definitely will.