A screen name stolen from an America Online user has apparently been linked to the Melissa computer virus as well as several others.
Investigators looking into the virus this week linked its spread to the online user name Sky Roket which was apparently stolen from an America Online user.
Network Associates Inc. told Reuters late Tuesday it was able to link Sky Roket to Melissa and a number of other computer viruses dating back more than a year.
However, they were quick to point out the person who actually has the AOL screen name was not responsible. Instead, the creator stole the identity to spread the virus.
Network Associates has turned over all its information to federal investigators looking into the virus. At its peak, it affected thousands of computers and slowed down e-mail servers around the world.
Melissa was first seen late Friday.