WEB users should be on the alert for a particularly smart computer virus that could steal passwords and credit card numbers.

The virus, known as Bugbear, arrives via e-mail with no specific subject line or text -- although it may be based on existing e-mails -- but always has a file size of 50,688 bytes.

Bugbear first attacks your anti-virus software, then opens a backdoor which could allow hackers to access your computer and steal your password and credit card information.

Mark Sunner, of anti-virus firm MessageLabs, said: "Bugbear is a particularly vicious e-mail virus with a considerable payload.

"Not only does it contain a Trojan that can log key stokes but it also disables anti-virus software."

If you have an e-mail virus package make sure it is updated, and if you don't you might want to think about buying one -- it can be done online.