Amazed by how easily and quickly computer viruses like “Anna Kornikova” and “the naked wife” got into your system? You should be. The number and variety of online viruses wreaking havoc on Australian businesses are worrying insurers and brokers.

The latest company to urge businesses to check they have adequate cover against email-generated computer viruses is mega-broker Marsh, which says many companies aren’t prtotected against first or third-party risks. Marsh Director Ray Armstrong says clients don’t appear to understand their liabilities. “Problems such as viruses, hackers and denial of service attacks – previously only thought of as first-party risks – may inadvertently cause damage to other businesses with whom they have dealings.”

There is no body of established law to fall back on, so many businesses think they’re adequately covered. Most will be surprised if they think about the potential liabilities they face and the sort of protection their insurer gives them.