Sophos, a world leader in corporate anti-virus protection, is
urging computer users to remain vigilant against the threat of
viruses during the run up to Valentine's Day. Exchanging electronic
Valentine's cards and downloading romance-themed programs from the
internet increases the risk of spreading viruses. Love-struck
computer users opening these 'e-cards' may find that they will be
hit by more than just cupid's arrow.
"If someone sends you a Valentine's e-card, at best they're an
unromantic cheapskate, at worst they're sending you a virus. Either
way, you should probably consider ditching them," said Graham
Cluley, senior technology consultant, Sophos Anti-Virus. "We
advocate the old-fashioned approach - flowers, chocolates or a
romantic meal for two. These gestures are much more seductive and
don't carry any risk of infection."
To reduce the threat of viruses all year round, Sophos is
advising all computer users to practice 'Safe Hex': the combination
of up-to-date anti-virus software and a few safe computing
guidelines which are both free and simple to implement.
Sophos's safe computing guidelines can be found here.