Just in time for Microsofts monthly security patch release, online scammers have been sending out fake security alerts by e-mail, in an attempt to install malware onto computer users' PCs, reports say.

The e-mail message promises a "Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer" but actually hides a Trojan. Clicking the link to download the "update" will take you to a server that attempts to install a malicious executable file.

Over the weekend, more than four exploits for a vulnerability in the Windows domain name system (DNS) service were published, increasing the chances of a widespread attack; exploits may aid cyber-criminals in creating malicious code to compromise systems through the vulnerability.

Todays security update: play it safe by getting your news from legitimate sources and not from attachments in your e-mail.

Social networking sites have been all the talk in the news this week. If you are among the millions who message on MySpace, or any of the thousands of sites similar to it, here's the latest security news you won't want to miss:

- Crafty cyber-thieves are skimming personal details from social networking sites to use in targeted attacks.

"It's just another Hallmark holiday." We've all heard that line from Valentines cynics who believe the day is mostly to benefit stores in selling more cards and merchandise.

But, sadly enough for the romantics among us, marketers are not the only ones who are using the occasion to their advantage. Whether or not you buy into the holiday, you'll need to stay on the lookout for online scams today.