A well-known anti-virus software provider has warned of the spread of a virus through the QQ instant messaging system, under the subject line "electronic roses on Valentine' Day," as the Chinese Valentine's Day approaches.

        Technicians with the Rising anti-virus network said computers hit by the virus will automatically send the virus-contained information through QQ.

        The information might read as follows, "Chinese Valentines' Day falls on July 31this year. On this special day, I send you an electronic rose for the special you. If you type in the following address, you can download it. "

The website address actually contains virus, said Rising experts.

         They also warned that there are always some viruses spreading through the instant messengers QQ and MSN around festivals like valentine's day, mid-autumn day and Christmas Day. Computer users should be careful of links or documents sent even by friends on those days, they said.