A Welsh virus writer who created three computer viruses has failed in an appeal to get his prison sentence reduced.

Simon Vallor, 22, admitted three counts of distributing computer virus and was jailed for two years for offences section three of the Computer Misuse Act 1990 at Southwark Crown Court in January. Vallor, Llandudno, north Wales, created three mass mailing viruses - Gokar, Redesi and Admirer.

At the Court of Appeal on Monday Vallor's counsel, Grant Van-Stone, argued that his client did not realise the serious effects of his actions and therefore deserved mercy.

Vallor's sentence should be reduced because of his previous good character, youth and his co-operation with the police and courts during his prosecution, Van-Stone told the court. Vallor pleaded guilty when the case went to Southwark Crown Court in January, sparing the state the cost of a trial.

The appeal court judges were unmoved by these arguments.

In dismissing the appeal, Mr Justice Aikens said that Vallor's crimes were "calculated and disruptive", the BBC reports. ®

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