ARTICLE
Virus Use in Workplace Violence Increases

For most of us, when we think of computer viruses ravaging workplace networks, our minds conjure images of employees accidentally downloading infected attachments or teenaged hackers determined to demonstrate how much damage they can do to businesses. However, in today's hostile business environment of increased outsourcing, corporate downsizing and salary reductions, company computer systems are increasingly being attacked by disgruntled employees.

A recent study sponsored by Risk Control Strategies found that an overwhelming majority of security and human resources executives surveyed said that workplace violence is a bigger problem now than it was just two years ago. Just under one-quarter of those surveyed reported that, in the last year, employees at their company have intentionally and maliciously downloaded viruses at work.

To prevent these potentially devastating attacks, experts recommend the following strategies:

1. Employ Background Checks - Using a thorough background check, the purposeful destruction of property is just one of the many criminal offenses that can be uncovered pre- or post-hire. Assessment tests that gauge attitudes and work-related values are another weapon that can be waged in the war against workplace violence.

2. Pinpoint Potential Perpetrators - Because workplace violence is rarely spontaneous, it is preventable. History shows that perpetrators are predominantly males between 25 and 40 who succumb to stress easily and are manipulative, chronic complainers. Since these criteria could describe individuals who pose no threat to workplace safety, however, they should be used in context with other warning signs.

3. Be Prepared to React to Red Flags - Perpetrators of workplace violence typically display warning signs of impending violence including leveling verbal threats, physical or verbal outbursts, harboring grudges or brandishing weapons to gain attention. Also, remarks to friends and co-workers that reveal intentions often precede violent acts. An estimated 86% of past workplace violence incidents were apparent to co-workers and were brought to management's attention before an incident. Astonishingly, over 75% of these incidents continued to develop as a result of inaction on the part of managers.