A loop found in the script for Internet Explorer 7.0 has prompted Microsoft to take action after it was discovered that computers could be remotely accessed through it and controlled.

The computing giant said that IT support workers such as administrators would be those worst affected, especially given that the script error could allow fraudsters to install an information-stealing code.

Utilising the newest version of the internet browser, systems using the newest version of Windows Vista are most affected by the problems.

"At this time, we are aware only of limited attacks that attempt to use this vulnerability," said Microsoft of the recent developments.

It continued: "Our investigation of these attacks so far has verified that they are not successful against customers who have applied workarounds."

The news follows the announcement by Microsoft that eight patches are being issued in its newest security update to cover 28 vulnerabilities, with six of them being rated "critical".

According to a recent survey by Connect, the two biggest IT headaches for businesses were 'everyday hassles with IT' (37 per cent) and 'security concerns' (32 per cent).