A new computer virus is holding thousands of gamers to ransom by stealing embarrassing personal details and publishing them online. publishing them online. The malware, called Kenzero, targets people who have illegally downloaded copies of pornographic "Hentai" games through file-sharing program Winni, the BBC reports. Winni, the BBC reports. The Japanese virus tricks the user into thinking they are logging into the game before taking screengrab of their internet history and posting the details online. The person is then issued with message demanding a 1500 yen ($17) fee to "settle your violation of copyright law" and remove the screengrab from public view. At least 5500 people have already admitted to being infected by the virus, according to Japanese newspaper Yomiuri. Rik Ferguson from Japan-based internet security company Trend Micro said the malware had been traced to a fictional person called Shoen Overns. "We've seen the name before in association with the Zeus and Koobface Trojans," he told the BBC."It is an established criminal gang that is continuously involved in this sort of activity.” Mr Ferguson said Kenzero had many similarities with ransomware, a type of virus which locks personal computer files then demands a fee for their decryption. He warned people to ignore any requests for payment regarding copyright lawsuits and instead update their anti-malware software.