Internet security experts have intercepted a virus that erroneously offers photos of Hong Kong star Andy Lau, said software security company Rising.

The virus, titled Backdoor.Delf.s, mainly spreads through LANs (local area networks) and arrives as "My photos.exe". When users open it, a photograph of Andy Lau appears on screen, by which time the virus has taken hold.

Hackers can access virus-affected computers and delete any documents on it.

"It was originally a typical backdoor program, but was updated with functions enabling it to spread through LANs. It became especially effective after offering photos of movie or sports stars," said Cai Jun, an anti-virus expert with Rising, who are based in Beijing.

An increasing number of viruses using this kind of technique have been detected, Cai said.

Andy Lau Tak-wah has been dubbed one of the Hong Kong pop scene's 'Four Heavenly Kings' and has maintained his popularity with a steady stream of music and film releases since the early 1980s.

(Xinhua News Agency January 18, 2005)