This news report makes a lot of sense. There are also risks in searching for celebrity information coupled with careless use of the internet. Viruses can infect users' computers and the possibility of information theft crops up.
Internet security firm McAfee Inc. said "Brad Pitt" or "Beyonce" key words are "the most dangerous celebrities" for web searchers.
Information and pictures that people search linking to key words "Pitt" and many others, including related downloads, wallpapers and screen savers, give users' PCs more than 15% chance of virus, spyware, spam, phishing and adware infections.
Searches for celebrity gossip, downloads, wallpaper and screen savers may direct surfers to fake web sites that endanger vulnerable computers or users.
McAfee also lists Mariah Carey, David Beckham, Rihanna, Fergie, Katie Holmes, Angelina Jolie, Katherine Heigl, Jessica Alba, Lindsay Lohan, Cameron Diaz and George Clooney as dangerous key words. Words Pitt and Justin Timberlake top the list for men. Beyonce and Heidi Montag for women.
Viruses, worms and spyware are known to serve marketing purposes or worse, steal sensitive information.
The revelation points to the need for added computer security, antivirus upgrades and users' education.
Acheron: One of several Rivers of Underworld.
Achilles: Greek warrior; slew Hector at Troy; slain by Paris, who wounded
him in his vulnerable heel.
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