YouTube Becomes SpamYou

Spammers are spreading their mischief via YouTube using a "Storm" worm virus, security experts warn. The virus exploits the site’s “invite your friends” email function, CNET reports, targeting Xbox owners and video-game fans by luring them with the promise of a popular prize: a free copy of "Halo 3." But click on the email’s links and it turns into a booby prize: the Storm worm launches.

Faced with ever-tightening email filters, spammers have had to innovate. In this case, a seemingly innocent message hits your inbox using a trusted YouTube email address and special software to get around the blurred-character verification system. No need to panic, Digital Trends says: It’s safe to open the email, as long as you delete it without clicking on its links. (More Trojan viruses stories.)