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Called the ‘world’s sexiest computer hacker’, Kristina Svechinskaya was arrested in New York earlier this month, accused of being a part of an internet fraud ring alleged to have used malware and trojan viruses to steal $35 million from US bank accounts.

It is alleged that the Russian brunette, 21, used fake passports to open a series of accounts flooded with cash plundered from online bank customers.

The racket is also believed to have siphoned £6million from UK victims.

Svechinskaya was among four New York students accused of assisting the plot after investigators held 37 Eastern European suspects said to have been involved.

"Money mules" like Svechinskaya are said to have taken a ten per cent cut of the profits.

Svechinskaya faces up to 40 years behind bars for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and false use of a passport and is due to reappear in court tomorrow.