This is a little bit twisted. Emoticons started out their lives as text-based characters designed to resemble human expressions. They've evolved into cartoon smiley faces and in some cases, even 3D figures. Now Symantec wants to take things full circle by finding people who can emulate emoticons with... facial expressions.

Symantec is holding a contest allowing you to submit a photo with a facial expression. Looking at the demonstrations, we have to say, it's a lot easier to replicate a pissed off, winking, or tongue-out emoticon than a smiling one. You know, because people are always smiling in photos.

You can submit your photo up until September 30th for the chance to win a variety of prizes including $10,000 in cash. Just entering the contest will get you a 15% off coupon for Norton 360 or Norton Save and Restore, so don't go thinking this is an altruistic contest and not just a publicity stunt. The logic behind the contest is a bit baffling though, as emoticons are somehow supposed to remind you that it's important to back up your data.