Paula Murray



A COMPUTER help desk operator was allowed to keep her job despite being caught downloading porn at work.

Hanna Haapamaki works for computer giant IBM, whose nickname within the industry is The Big Blue.

During routine upgrading of her PC, IT experts found a CD-rom with pornographic images - including some unusual sexual preferences - and network viruses.

When they highlighted her gross misconduct to bosses at the Greenock plant, Haapamaki, from Finland, was sent home.

But colleagues say she was allowed back a few days later after an investigation - without even a warning.

Six months ago, a Scots employee at the same IBM site was sacked for downloading a Hollywood movie.

A company insider said Haapamaki, who has worked at the help centre for about 16 months, was kept on because she is a good worker.

The employee, who asked not to be identified, said: "It was spelled out to security what this girl had done but everybody chose to ignore it.

"I think it's because she is said to be one of the best workers in the Nordic team.

"When a local was caught downloading Men In Black II, he was sacked. It seems to be the case of different treatment for different people."

Haapamaki works for IBM's EMEA Technical Helpcentre.

Established in the mid-1990s, it provides support to customers across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Most of the staff are contracted for IBM by recruitment services agency Adecco.

The insider added: "IBM have customers worldwide.

"What if some of these network viruses on her PC had spread? It could have easily caused millions of pounds- worth of damage."

An IBM spokeswoman confirmed the incident had taken place and involved an Adecco employee but refused to comment further.

An Adecco spokeswoman said: "Some months ago, an employee was subject to disciplinary procedure as a result of a misuse of the system.

"The employee concerned is now leaving the company of her own accord."

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