Since this story was originally posted, it has been updated to correct the description of the Yahoo messaging worm’s effects.Malware writers have created a new worm that installs a new browser and plays screeching music.The annoyance starts with a link apparently sent by a friend in Yahoo’s instant messaging program.Instant messaging security company FaceTime Communications described the malware, which it calls “yhoo32.explr,” as “insidious” in a security advisory Friday. When the link is clicked, a worm installs the so-called “Safety Browser,” a program that leads the user to pages mined with adware and viruses, FaceTime said. The Safety Browser uses an Internet Explorer logo to make it look more legitimate.Malware spread through instant messaging programs is on the rise. However, FaceTime said this malware appeared to be the first to install a browser without the user’s permission. The bug also hijacks Internet Explorer’s homepage, directing users to the Safety Browser’s website.After it is launched, the worm sends itself to others on the user’s instant messaging contact list. The malware is engineered to overwrite instant messages typed by a user, FaceTime said. The infected message can also be changed on the fly, the company said.The screeching music, however, is blocked by Microsoft’s Windows XP Service Pack 2, FaceTime said.FaceTime has posted screenshots of the infection process on its blog.-Jeremy Kirk, IDG News Service Check out our CIO News Alerts and Tech Informer pages for more updated news coverage. Related content brandpost Sponsored by Palo Alto Networks Operational technology systems require a robust Zero Trust strategy in 2024 Zero Trust provides a foundation for creating a stronger security posture in 2024. By Navneet Singh, vice president of marketing, network security, Palo Alto Networks Dec 05, 2023 6 mins Security brandpost Sponsored by AWS in collaboration with IBM How digital twin technology is changing complex industrial processes forever As the use cases for digital twins proliferate, it is becoming clear that data-driven enterprises with a track record of innovation stand the best chance of success. By Laura McEwan Dec 05, 2023 4 mins Digital Transformation brandpost Sponsored by AWS in collaboration with IBM Why modernising applications needs to be a ‘must’ for businesses seeking growth Around one-third of enterprises are spending heavily on application modernisation and aiming for cloud native status. The implications for corporate culture, structure and priorities will be profound. By Laura McEwan Dec 05, 2023 5 mins Digital Transformation opinion 11 ways to reduce your IT costs now Reorienting IT’s budget toward future opportunities is a big reason why CIOs should review their IT portfolios with an eye toward curbing unnecessary spending and realizing maximum value from every IT investment. By Stephanie Overby Dec 05, 2023 11 mins Budget Cloud Management IT Governance Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe