In this particular case I think the perpetraitor was eventually arrested by the German police after a extradition warrent from a southern european country. It was on the TV but I can't remember any details. He had grown a medium size business based on the profits from this [problem].

No I have a full range of antivirus and anti malware tools on board. But as you probably know there's always a period before these catch up with new viruses. I'm a IT techy and have good technical knowledge. Fortunately I realised what was going on and only lost a few pounds. Others who were less fortunate lost about 700 pound. The premium rate calls were international and at 3 pound a minute. Dont' tell me you've never had a virus on your PC ?

I have a premium rate number block on my BT line following previous computer dialler infections. I believe this only blocks UK numbers and not International premium rate.