Lepton flavor violating processes involving τ leptons

The lepton flavor violating processes involving τ leptons are discussed. First, the experimental signature of this kind of processes, is described using the examples of the Z decay Z → e(μ)τ and the τ rare decay γ → e e e. A general theoretical scheme is given that allows the unified description of the lepton flavor violating Z and τ rare decays. The current limits on both kinds of processes are discussed. Finally, the prospects of two future machines are examined the LEP collider operating at high luminosity and the proposed τ-charm factory. (author) 16 refs., 2 figs