Harry Potter and the online bandits

Harry Potter star Emma Watson is the favourite celebrity bait for cyber criminals trying to lure internet users, according to a new survey.

Security software firm McAfee she was the “most dangerous” celebrity to search for online because many sites use her name to trick users into downloading malicious software or to steal personal information.

When searching for the 22-year-old Watson, there is a one-in-eight chance of landing on a malicious site.

It is the sixth time the Intel-owned company has conducted the study, which was last year topped by Heidi Klum.

Female celebrities are far more likely to be utilised by cyber criminals.

Others among the riskiest celebrities to search online are Jessica Biel, Eva Mendes, Selena Gomez and Halle Berry.