29 September 2007 - Important information
We have become aware of a new malicious computer virus/worm, and wanted to let everyone know about some good practices to help keep your computer and RuneScape account safe. There's no need to panic, but there are some precautions you should take.

The reason we are mentioning this worm in particular is because we believe that one version of it may attempt to specifically steal RuneScape passwords by recording your key presses as you type, and sending them back to the worm owner.

The new worm is called Bubbles, but is also known as Ramex, Skipi and Pykspa. Bubbles can get on to a computer in two different ways. Either by being downloaded directly from a third party website, or by a user receiving and opening a file disguised as a web link in third party messaging programs.

The worm cannot be transmitted through playing RuneScape or using the RuneScape.com website.

The security of the RuneScape servers themselves is in no way affected by this, this worms affect users own computers, not our servers which are very well protected.

The best protection against malicious computer software is to stay vigilant and use an up to date anti-virus program.

For anyone who is not currently using an anti-virus program, we really recommend that you install one as soon as possible! In fact install one right now!

If you do have an anti-virus program installed but it is not up to date, please take the time to update it with the latest virus definitions now. Again don't delay!

Lastly, you should never accept files from unknown sources full stop. However pay extra special attention when using 3rd party messaging programs or email as it is very easy to accidentally download malicious software by following a link.