Dubai: A highly sophisticated computer virus targeting the Middle East has been discovered by security firms.
They believe it was deployed at least five years ago as part of state-sponsored cyber espionage.
Stuxnet worm
Evidence suggests that the virus, Flame, may have been created on behalf of the same nation or nations that commissioned the Stuxnet worm that attacked Iran's nuclear programme in 2010, according to cyber security software maker Kaspersky Lab.
Kaspersky researchers have yet to determine whether Flame had a specific mission like Stuxnet, and declined to say who they think created it.
The virus has infected computers in Iran, Leban-on, Sudan, Syria, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Virus can gather data
It can gather data files, remotely change settings on computers, turn on microphones to record conversations, take screenshots and log instant messaging chats.
"Flame can be described as one of the most complex threats ever discovered," Alexander Gostev, Chief Security Expert at Kaspersky Lab, says.
James Lyne, director of technology strategy, Sophos, adds: "We do not know who is behind the virus, but given its complexity and the geography of its targets, it is most likely being staged by a government."
He said the authors of Stuxnet and Duqu viruses are also unknown.
Kaspersky said most of Flame's targets are in Iran.
