Do MP3s contain virus time-bombs?

Thoroughly angry musicians turn to cyber terrorism...

NEWS A hoax is doing the rounds today, which warns users who have downloaded songs from the likes of Napster that many MP3 files contain malicious code on 4 July. Users of at least three Usenet discussion groups were warned that around 500 of the most popular MP3s are embedded with a program called 'MusicPanel'. This program, reportedly developed by disgruntled musicians at an American Independence Day concert, claims to evade detection by AV software and will cause computers to crash and the MP3 files to self-destruct around the world next Wednesday. The claim by the group is a hoax however, as data files such as MP3s are unable to execute by themselves, which means they can't be infected by a virus. For related news see:
Virus alert: New worm rises stateside
http://www.silicon.com/a45309
Virus clampdown: Kournikova writer stands trial
http://www.silicon.com/a45207

Post your comment

In order to post a comment you need to be registered and logged in.

You can also log in with Facebook. Log in or create your silicon.com account below

  • Login

Will not be displayed with your comment

By signing up for this service, you indicate that you agree to our Terms and Conditions and have read and understood our Privacy Policy.

Questions about membership? Find the answers in the Membership FAQ

Get silicon.com's daily newsletter

  • Register on silicon.com

    Enter your email to register

Keep in touch with silicon.com

silicon.com newsletters