FBI launches investigation into new Internet virus

The MyDoom Internet virus is spreading rapidly and clogging computer networks worldwide.

The FBI has said it was launching a probe into the MyDoom Internet virus that was spreading rapidly and clogging computer networks around the world.

'We are aware of it and we are actively investigating,' FBI spokesman Paul Bresson said on Tuesday.

The FBI last year arrested at least two people believed responsible for the 'Blaster' virus that created havoc on the Internet and have been hunting for authors of the SoBig worm, which paralysed some portions of the Internet last year.

For the new virus, Bresson said, 'We have not done a full assessment, but it's serious enough to warrant the FBI to look into this.'

Some analysts were comparing the new virus to SoBig and said it could be the fastest-spreading worm ever.

'Initial indications are that MyDoom is propagating as fast as SoBig.F,' said Scott Chasin, chief technology officer at US-based security firm MX Logic.

The company has seen a peak at 1,200 infected e-mails per second, making it a 'critical threat,' according to a statement from MX Logic.

Some analysts said users were opening the attachments and spreading the virus because the e-mails appeared innocuous, sometimes referring to failed mail deliveries.