Known as “VBS/Loveletter.bd,” the virus is based on that which devastated computer systems internationally in May this year. The new strain again uses Microsoft Outlook to replicate itself. It downloads a password-stealing program from one of several computers on the internet that then copies on-line banking information for the United Bank of Switzerland off the infected computer.
Experts have suggested that, because of the narrow focus of the virus, it is unlikely to harm many individuals or businesses, but it is more alarming as a “proof of concept” for future viruses targeting customers of any bank.