Computer forensics expert Erin Nealy Cox of Stroz Friedberg says companies should have a plan, use common sense when dealing with spam e-mail and electronic threats
Those spam e-mails that bloat your Outlook inboxes aren't just annoying, they also threaten to propagate dangerous computer viruses. Even spammers know that love can make people do crazy things, so it's not surprising that they've latched onto Valentine's Day to spread e-mail viruses. As snopes.com confirms, spammers are using e-mails with syrupy Valentine's messages in the subject heading to spread the "storm worm," just like they did in 2007. The same virus has been adapted for e-mail messages about the Obama inauguration and a range of other current events. It's not an elaborate ruse, but it's effective.

Erin Nealy Cox, a deputy general counsel and managing director at computer forensic firm Stroz Friedberg's Dallas office, says the potential for such e-mail viruses should serve as a reminder for businesses and individuals to bone up on computer security practices and review e-mail habits. "Computer viruses and electronic security pose enormous financial risks," she says. "Every company should have an information security plan, from defending against viruses to preventing data breaches and responding to litigation." The virus behind the Valentine's Day e-mails has subject lines including "With all my love" and "Me and you." To speak with Ms. Cox about computer forensics, contact Robert Tharp at 800-559-4534 or robert@androvett.com.