The suspect is now a young female computing student, whom local police say is presently a moving target. It is thought she may have already destroyed whatever evidence could link her to the worst computer virus case to date. Previously, a 23 year old man was the main suspect.
It was the computer used to launch the virus which has been traced - the female student is the registered owner of that computer.
The virus caused a propagation of e-mails throughout the world with the subject line "ILOVEYOU". Variations followed, using subject lines such as "JOKE" and "ANTI-VIRUS WARNING". More variants are expected in the coming weeks.
The FBI has been assisting with the investigation by authorities in the Philippines.