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.

Microsoft is set to issue six security updates today.

Reminder: Microsoft does send out notification e-mails after publishing security bulletins, but these messages never have attachments; the links will only bring you to the actual security bulletin. If you are in doubt, Microsoft has a list of ways to verify if the security-related e-mail message you have received is genuine.