CHINA'S computer users should be on guard against cyber bugs that may spread through instant messages, flash memory storage disks and Website links during the weeklong National Day holiday, Internet security experts warned yesterday.

"Newly detected computer worms infect computers through MSN, Internet TV and entertainment Websites; so they will probably peak during the holiday," Beijing Jiangmin New Sci & Tec Co, an anti-virus firm, said in a note.

Computer users can be hit by infections after clicking links on MSN or the QQ messaging site that are disguised as photo files or lottery information, according to Jiangmin.

About 84 percent of MSN accounts in China, which now surpass 15 million, have been targeted by people operating these links, experts said.

Hackers often seek password information for online game accounts and virtual weapons that are traded in auction Websites for up to several thousand yuan.

Some hackers also target online bank and stock accounts to steal funds from the owners or conduct money laundering. Jiangmin said that One such virus called "TrojanSpy.banker" is expected to break out during the holiday, which begins today.

USB storage disks have become another hot infection source as many people exchange pictures through the disks during the holiday.

Experts warned computer users to update Internet security programs regularly and be cautious about opening strange or unknown links.