Chinese jailed for making computer viruses

XUZHOU, China, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Eleven people were sentenced to jail by Chinese officials Wednesday for their roles in creating and distributing computer viruses.

They received sentences of up to three years for creating malicious software designed to steal usernames and passwords of online games, the Chinese news agency Xinhua reported.

The Gulou District People's Court in Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, convicted Lv Yizhong and Zeng Yifu of designing "Trojan horse" viruses employed to steal 5.3 million usernames and passwords for online games, while Yan Renhai, his girlfriend Chen Huiting and others used the viruses to steal online "game coins" for illegal gains.

Xinhua said Lv and Zeng logged $94,600 in illegal gains. Lv was sentenced to three years in jail and Zeng drew 2 1/2 years, while Yan was sentenced to two years, eight months and Chen got two years.

They and the seven other defendants were also reportedly fined $122,000.