Computer hackers attack MI5 website

Computer hackers have attacked MI5's official website in an apparent bid to steal the identities of visitors to the site, it has been reported.

The security breach could also have enabled the hackers to download viruses onto the machines of anyone using the British intelligence services website, the Daily Express reported.

A Whitehall spokeswoman said there had been a "small issue" with a search engine linked to the MI5 website.

She said: "MI5 take security very seriously. Their website is secure and hosted in a high security environment."