The FBI is warning computer e-mail users to watch for the virus disguised as an electronic greeting card.
By: Ben Thompson
Published: Feb 14, 2008
Updated: Sep 2, 2010
The Storm Worm virus began circulating on the Internet in January 2007, and is spread through e-cards that are sent on popular holidays, the FBI said.
The virus has identified Valentine's Day as the next potential target for an outbreak. It is categorized as malicious or "malware"and directs the e-mail recipient to click on a link to receive an e-card.
Once clicked, the malware is automatically downloaded to the user's computer and a "botnet" is dispersed into the PC's internal system. Once this happens, the computer can be controlled by the invading hacker.
{slot15}It affects almost every type of Microsoft operating system, including Windows XP, Windows Vista. The virus infiltrates the computer's files which can be manipulated or destroyed.
The FBI warns the public not to open e-mails from unknown users or click on unfamiliar links. If you open your e-mail and unexpectedly receive a Valentine's Day e-card be careful. The risk of getting a virus e-card is on the rise.
You should always have an anti-virus application installed on your computer. Most popular ones are McAfee (can be downloaded free if you're a Comcast customer) and Norton.
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