News and Media Releases from AVG (AU/NZ)

Valentine's Day: How to Send and Receive e-Cards Safely

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 2 February 2010 - With Valentine's Day just a few heart beats away, millions of e-cards and messages will be flying through the Internet. But these low cost, eco-friendly expressions of affection can expose your home computer to security threats.

Internet security software distributor AVG (AU/NZ) warns that criminals are using this increasingly popular medium to deliver viruses and other malware to the computers of their unsuspecting victims. Because risky e-cards are typically made to look like they have been sent from a trusted friend, they fool the recipient into opening them.

Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager of AVG (AU/NZ), said. "Most people will automatically open an e-card if it's from a friend or colleague. To protect yourself from unwanted attention from cyberspace be very careful what e-cards you open and what you forward on."

"While receiving an anonymous card from a Valentine can be exciting, opening an anonymous email with 'I Love You' in the subject line could be courting disaster. Don't let some nasty piece of malware worm its way into the heart of your computer."

Only a tiny percentage of e-greetings will contain a security threat but many PCs will be damaged or compromised. This results in not only lost documents, emails, photos and so on, but compromised PCs often become unwitting distributors of spam or their owners may become the target of identity theft.

Following AVG (AU/NZ)'s five practical tips will minimise the risk of becoming a victim of online fraud or cyber criminals this Valentine's Day:

Don't open attachments: legitimate e-cards should be links to a company website that then direct you to your card.
Identify legitimate messages: Don't open any message with a disguised name, such as Your Friend or A Secret Admirer, or one from an unknown web site address. Watch for misspelled words or names.
When in doubt, delete: It's better to do that than open your system to a virus or spam.
Know where you're going online: At the very least, use free basic security software that detects and blocks web sites that push online scams, adware installations, attachments filled with viruses and other malicious downloads which could harm your system. Access AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 9.0 with LinkScanner technology here: www.avgfree.com.au. For complete protection, use a full suite solution like AVG Internet Security 9.0.
Always read the fine print before accepting any terms: Some e-card scams list in their terms that they can send email to everyone in your address book.

Because spam e-mail and attached malware has increased to such intrusive levels, for the continuing safety of your home computer, AVG AU/NZ recommends anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall software as essential, minimum protection.

"Using home computers safely has become very much easier as everything that's required is now affordable and easy to install," Borrett said.

As an example, the AVG Internet Security 9.0 full suite solution is an excellent Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Rootkit, Two-way Firewall and Anti-Spam protection software for all of your computer system needs. Carbonite Online PC Backup is cost effective insurance against the loss of documents, photos and all other valuable files.

"And, importantly, ensure your security and backup software is current by using automatic updates and that it is licensed, installed and running properly at all times," Borrett advised.

For more AVG security tips, see www.avg.com.au/resources/security-tips/.

The Worm Ate My Homework: New Back-To-School Computer Use Checklist For Parents

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 21 January 2010 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, which distributes the AVG range of Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, has created a Back-To-School Computer Use Checklist For Parents (www.avg.com.au/resources/security-tips/).

In one easy list are guidelines to help parents understand the current terminology, what to be looking for, and how to ensure children are using computers safely and responsibly. It also includes an associated shopping list of software and accessories for parents to consider.

Lloyd Borrett, AVG (AU/NZ)'s Marketing Manager, said: "There is much to learn and monitor when it comes to your children's use of computers. With the many threats out there today and changes in technology, it can be quite a daunting task for parents to keep up. From our extensive knowledge of what is happening in the area of Internet security, we have compiled a checklist covering all the issues."

"As parents and their children rely more and more on the information stored on home computers, I cannot stress too highly how vital it is to protect it against online threats or loss."

With the government's Education Revolution, and the growing use of laptops by school children, will come enormous losses of school homework, assignments and study notes through laptop damage or theft.

A child's school may have an open wireless network, or kids could decide to work at the local Internet café. These are prime targets and leave laptops vulnerable to viruses, worms and other malware.

"It's no longer a matter of the 'dog eating my homework'. It will become a matter of 'the worm ate my homework' if parents don't have all the protection mechanisms in place," Borrett said.

"Using home computers safely has become very much easier as everything that's required is now affordable and easy to install," Borrett continued.

The overriding caution in AVG's Back-To-School Computer Use Checklist For Parents is to keep all security and backup software current by using automatic updates and ensure it is licensed, installed and running properly at all times.

"Viruses are being introduced so rapidly that most reputable security software vendors release multiple threat definition updates every day. Not only the operating system but all other programs and pieces of software on the computer need to be regularly updated," Borrett advised.

For parents looking for security software, the AVG Internet Security 9.0 full suite solution delivers excellent Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Rootkit, Enhanced Firewall and Anti-Spam protection (www.avg.com.au/products/avg-internet-security/). Even the basic protection provided by the free version of AVG (www.avgfree.com.au), is much better than nothing at all.

Borrett also suggests a solution for parents worried about homework and assignments being lost, or the kids losing all their data if a laptop is stolen. He recommends they use an Internet based remote backup solution such as Carbonite Online PC Backup (www.carbonite.com.au).

Another recommendation is to educate children to stay away from the popular peer-to-peer (P2P) networks from which the vast majority of the files being shared are copyrighted songs and movies which are illegal to download and often carry infection mechanisms.

The AVG Checklist also includes a shopping list of helpful accessories suggesting everything from a USB key for easy transfer and transportation of data to a laptop security cable.

To view or download the Back-To-School Computer Use Checklist For Parents go to AVG (AU/NZ)'s web site at www.avg.com.au/resources/security-tips/.

Please support the Haiti Earthquake Appeal 2010 - Add a donation button

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 18th January, 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) has continued its tradition of fund raising for special disaster charitable appeals with its latest web site donation button for the Australian Red Cross' Haiti Earthquake Appeal 2010. As well as encouraging everyone to donate, AVG is asking other organisations to use their own web sites to also promote the appeal.

The Australian Red Cross launched the Haiti Earthquake Appeal 2010 following a devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake 15 kms off the Haitian coast at approximately 5.00 pm local time on 12 January 2010. Local and international Red Cross staff and volunteers are providing relief in the most needed areas.

The past week has seen the destruction of communities, homes and lives with the death toll still growing.

With a network of volunteers in 186 countries around the world, Red Cross is able to respond moments after a disaster occurs, even in locations as remote as Haiti.

To help webmasters throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific to promote secure online donations to the Haiti Disaster Relief 2010 appeal via the Australian Red Cross web site, AVG (AU/NZ) has created the donation button below.

You can add this button to the upper right corner of all of your web site pages by making a simple modification to your web site template. Please add the code below, or as found at http://www.avg.com.au/news/avg_2010_haiti_earthquake/, near the bottom of all of your web page code, immediately before the </body> tag:

<script type="text/javascript">

  <!--

  document.write('<div style="position: absolute; left: 100%; top: 0px; overflow: visible; height: 120px; width: 120px; margin: 0 0 0 -120px; padding: 0; z-index: 9999; border: none; float: none;"><img src="http://www.avgfree.com.au/images/red-cross.gif" width="120" height="120" border="0" usemap="#rc" /></div><map name="rc"><area shape="poly" coords="0,0,120,0,120,120" href="http://www.redcross.org.au/howyoucanhelp_Haiti_Appeal.htm" /></map>');

  // -->

</script>

You can see the donation button in action at www.avg.com.au
Thanks to Brian Alvey for the original idea.

AVG Warns Against Growing Threat of Cyber Crime at Home

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 13 January 2010 - According to the FBI, cyber attacks are potentially more dangerous than a nuclear attack and weapons of mass destruction. In our society, where everything of importance is controlled by computers, should these fall prey to cyber criminals, it could result in 'cybergeddon'.

While we have yet to experience anything on this scale, we are still under constant threat from cyber crime.

With PCs now containing up to 200 million lines of code of which 2 million could include bugs, and with homes full of mobile phones, games consoles and PDAs, the potential for falling prey to hackers and identity theft is a real and growing threat, according to leading distributor of anti-virus and internet security software, AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd.

Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager of AVG (AU/NZ), said: "We expect our workplace computers and data to be protected to the highest level but people are failing to fully protect their personal information. With cyber criminals becoming ever more sophisticated, it is crucial to be protected at home."

"Each line of code in your PC could include bugs that are easily infiltrated by hackers. A virus in your computer may only be an inconvenience but identity theft is a very real concern," he said.

Reports from the UK suggest that theft from online bank accounts is growing at a staggering rate of 50% per year.

"While government security services worldwide are doing as much as they can to protect us from broader 'cybergeddon', it's up to each individual to protect their own equipment and data," Borrett said.

AVG offers comprehensive real-time protection for home and small to medium businesses to guard against all threats from viruses, spam, spyware, adware, worms, Trojans, phishing and exploits to hackers, scammers and identity thieves.

AVG (AU/NZ) Appoints Michael Dowling as Corporate Sales Director

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 13 January 2010 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security software, has announced the appointment of Michael Dowling as Corporate Sales Director.

Dowling's primary role is to further expand the usage of AVG in the SMB and enterprise markets. An initial task will be to spearhead a review of AVG (AU/NZ)'s reseller program and focus on active engagement with its channel of some 2,600 partners.

Dowling said: "This is a tremendous opportunity to build a great team and an energised network. With a disciplined sales approach we will be able to really get behind our strong product line, enthusiastic resellers and satisfied customer base."

Dowling has broad experience in the reseller environment from his previous roles at Melbourne IT, Domain Intellect, IT&E, Zebra Direction, and most recently, Achieve Global.

His capabilities are well known to AVG (AU/NZ)'s managing director, Peter Cameron, as the pair have worked together in the past: "With Michael on board we can now confidently step up our plans for growth through building stronger relationships with our existing partners and capturing new business."

AVG Shows Why It's Still the #1 Most Downloaded Software

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Security Software Company Tops CNET's Most Downloaded List; Racks up Top Awards and Certifications

Melbourne, 11 January 2010 - AVG (AU/NZ), the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the world's most popular free anti-virus software, has announced that AVG still dominates the security sector as the most downloaded software of all time on CNET's Downloads.com website - delivering more than 1.5 million downloads every week and an astonishing 247 million downloads cumulatively since AVG was first offered at the site.

A quick retrospective of the top awards and certifications earned by AVG throughout the year explains why:

Business Solutions Magazine "A Best Channel Vendor 2010"
AVG Technologies recognised as "A Best Channel Vendor 2010" in the Security category.
SC Magazine 2010 Award Finalist
AVG Internet Security Business Edition named a finalist in the Anti-malware category in the 2010 SC Awards Competition for outstanding achievement in information technology security.
SC Magazine "Best of 2009"
AVG Internet Security Network Edition* received "Best of 2009" recognition in the category of Anti-Malware.
Business Solutions Magazine "Best Channel Product 2009"
AVG Internet Security Small Business Server (SBS) edition* recognised as a "Best Channel Product 2009" in two categories: Email Security and Endpoint Security from Business Solutions Magazine.
SC Magazine UK 2009 Excellence Award Winner
AVG Internet Security Small Business Server (SBS) solution* received the Excellence Award for Best SME Security Solution from SC Magazine UK.
10 Essential Third-Party Security Apps for Windows 7
AVG Anti-Virus was selected by eWeek magazine as one of the best enhancements to Windows 7.
CRN's "14 Essential Products for SMB"
AVG Internet Security named to Computer Reseller News list of 14 essential products for SMB.
Channel Web's "Best Products of 2009"
AVG Internet Security named to Channel Web's best products of the year.
Lifehacker.com's "Most Popular Free Windows Downloads"
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition was voted #1 most popular download by readers of Lifehacker.com.
5 Stars (out of 5) - PC Utilities
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition was received 5 out of 5 stars in a review by PC Utilities magazine.
2009 Global Product Excellence
AVG Internet Security won the 2009 Global Product Excellence Award - Security Solution for Consumers. The Info Security Products Guide sponsored the awards.
2009 Global Product Excellence
AVG Internet Security Network Edition* won the 2009 Global Product Excellence Award - Security Solution for Enterprise (Small and SOHO).
SC Magazine "Recommended"
AVG Internet Security Network Edition* solution received the "Recommended" designation in the Anti-malware Group Test performed by security publication SC Magazine.
Business Solutions Magazine "A Best Channel Vendor 2009"
AVG Technologies named "A Best Channel Vendor" in the Security Category.
West Coast Labs Checkmark Platinum Products (www.westcoastlabs.com)
AVG Internet Security received Checkmark platinum certification in the category of Anti-Malware (Real Time Anti-Malware for FTP and Real Time Anti-Malware for HTTP). AVG is currently one of only four companies with this real time platinum certification.
West Coast Labs Checkmark Certified Products (www.westcoastlabs.com)
AVG Internet Security has current Checkmark certification for Anti-Malware, Anti-Malware Dynamic, Anti-Spyware Desktop, Anti-Trojan, Anti-Virus Desktop, and Anti-Virus Server.
Virus Bulletin VB100 Awards (www.virusbtn.com)
AVG Internet Security (for Windows 7)
AVG Internet Security Network Edition (for Windows Server 2003)
AVG Internet Security (for Windows Vista)
AVG (for Windows Server 2003)
AVG (for Windows XP Professional)
ICSA Labs Certified Products (www.iscalabs.com)
Certifications for AVG Anti-Virus for Desktop /Server Anti-Virus Detection (consumer); AVG File Server Edition for Desktop/Server Anti-Virus Detection (small business)

* Re-named AVG Internet Security Business Edition

"AVG continues to make really awesome software that consumers and small businesses like to use; it's that simple," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager of AVG (AU/NZ). "As AVG's competitors scramble to match our strength, we've now upped the ante by moving toward protecting humans - not just computers. You can expect to see more emphasis on protecting online communities and the Internet at large in AVG's road map for 2010."

AVG wins Checkmark Platinum Product Award by Westcoast Labs for AVG 9.0

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 21 December 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, is proud to announce that AVG Technologies has been awarded the Checkmark Platinum Product Award by Westcoast Labs, a leading independent test facility for the information security products and services industry.

AVG's Internet Security 9.0 software has achieved the Checkmark Platinum Product Award for Real Time Anti-Malware protection, following an extensive testing process. Tests were run continuously against security threats collected in real time through West Coast Labs' global network amid a testing environment that imitates the real-life working conditions of the average user's computer.

The global nature of IT security threats, coupled with demand for up-to-the-minute performance of security products, fuels the need for sophisticated product testing that extends beyond standard, baseline benchmarking tests.

"Today's internet threats from hackers and cyber criminals are both transient and rapidly evolving. To combat them, security products must also evolve. As such, real time testing of security products is critical, and it takes both reactive and proactive technologies to protect against today's threats. That's what we've achieved with our latest release of products," said AVG Technologies' CTO Karel Obluk.

West Coast Labs Release

http://www.westcoastlabs.com/checkmark/search/platinum/

IRVINE, CA and CARDIFF, UK -- (Marketwire) -- 12/14/09 -- West Coast Labs, part of the Haymarket Media Group and one of the world's leading independent test facilities for information security products and services, today announced AVG Technologies, CA, Inc., Kaspersky Lab and Webroot received the Checkmark Platinum Product Award for participation in the West Coast Labs Real Time Testing Program. This unique, higher level of product performance validation requires 24x7x365 live testing of solutions against a live malware feed that approximates the real-life working conditions of the average user's computer.

Checkmark Real Time Testing program is designed to provide vendors with an accurate independent measurement of real world product performance. The Checkmark Platinum Product Award is issued based upon the results of extensive real-time testing of the quality of anti-malware protection provided by a product or service. The tests run continuously against security threats collected in real time through West Coast Labs' global network.

"We are glad that another independent research lab appreciates the value of dynamic testing and importantly, is committed to testing how effective antivirus products are in the everyday situations that users typically find themselves in," said Alexander Gostev, Director of Kaspersky Lab Global Research and Analysis Team. "What makes the approach adopted by West Coast Labs so valuable is that they will continue their dynamic testing for a long time, with vendors receiving renewed certification based on each test period's results. The Checkmark Platinum Product Award received by Kaspersky Lab clearly demonstrates that the decision we made several years ago to focus on developing such technologies as Hosted Intrusion Prevention was totally justified. It also shows that our approach to protection is indeed truly comprehensive."

Demand for Unparalleled Performance Validation

The global nature of IT security threats coupled with demand from both vendors and end-users for up-to-the-minute performance validation of mission critical security applications and services continues to fuel the need for sophisticated product testing that expands beyond standard, baseline benchmarking tests.

"As an extension of our Real Time Testing, the Platinum Product Awards is a formal recognition of the level to which a product's performance and detection capabilities are validated," said Lysa Myers, director of research, West Coast Labs. "Where many product tests and validations occur in a vacuum without regard to time and geography, our Real Time Testing Program most closely resembles user experiences by testing against up-to-the-minute threats originating from multiple geographies aimed at varying entry points."

Malware authors continuously seek new opportunities to compromise the security of end user data and enterprise computing systems by evolving the distribution and structure of malware to make detection difficult or by exploiting weaknesses in new operating systems or major upgrades. "Today's internet threats from hackers and cyber criminals are both transient and rapidly evolving. To combat them, security products must also evolve. As such, real time testing of security products is critical, and it takes both reactive and proactive technologies to protect against today's threats. That's what we've achieved with our latest release of products," said AVG Technologies CTO Karel Obluk. "Testing against a static set of threats is becoming less important. We expected to perform well, but are pleased that AVG Internet Security 9.0 received West Coast Labs Platinum Product Award for Real Time Anti-Malware protection. This third party recognition validates our continuing efforts to protect our customers."

West Coast Labs maintains up-to-date, accurate views of the threat landscape through its real-time data collection from its global research network, which serves as the foundation of its Real Time Testing Program. This approach gives a highly accurate assessment of product effectiveness versus testing regimes that employ simple collection and testing regimes often compromised due to outdated test samples.

According to Paul Lipman, senior vice president and general manager of Webroot's Consumer business, "Webroot is committed to protecting our customers against the millions of new, increasingly sophisticated security threats we're seeing emerge each year. We are pleased to receive a Checkmark Platinum Product Award from West Coast Labs because it's further validation that Webroot's products deliver highly effective, real-time detection and protection against the latest malware."

Don DeBolt, director of threat research, CA Internet Security Business Unit, said, "Obtaining the Checkmark Platinum Award for CA Internet Security Suite Plus 2010 is an important validation of CA's commitment to producing easy-to-use Internet security solutions that offer the highest levels of protection required to successfully protect PC users from constantly evolving online threats."

Details for participating vendors and their products are available at: http://www.westcoastlabs.com/checkmark/search/platinum.

About West Coast Labs Checkmark Certification

Checkmark is one of the world's leading certification systems for information security products and services. This highly regarded accreditation program provides a level of assurance across a wide range of technologies that products and services perform to industry accepted standards.

About West Coast Labs Real Time Testing Program

The Real Time Testing Program builds upon Checkmark Certification program with the belief that effective independent performance validation of content security technologies should occur as an actual business experience in real-world environments. West Coast Labs now delivers sophisticated, live testing and real-time product performance through its 24x7x365 Real Time Testing program. Products are tested continuously against content security threats collected through West Coast Labs' global network in real time to provide the ultimate in performance validation. Upon completion of the Checkmark Certification program and Real Time Testing program, products are recognized with a Platinum Product Award indicating its ability to meet superior levels of performance standards.

About West Coast Labs

Part of the Haymarket Media Group, West Coast Labs is a global leader in technical research, testing and the Checkmark Certification of information security products and services. With market-leading technology and testing facilities accredited to ISO17025 in the UK, USA and India, West Coast Labs' services and the Checkmark Certification System are being used by the leading global brands to create market advantage and by large business enterprises for obtaining crucial technical insight into product performance.

AVG (AU/NZ) Prices Lowered

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 16 December 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd has today dropped the prices of AVG Internet Security 9.0, AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 and AVG Anti-Virus plus Firewall 9.0 consumer products. This price reduction is a result of AVG (AU/NZ) passing on reductions in our cost price brought about by the strengthening of the Australian dollar over the US dollar.

"We are delighted to enhance the already high value proposition offered by our consumer products," said Peter Cameron, Managing Director of AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd.

"A one year licence for our premium product, AVG Internet Security 9.0 is now only A$69.00 inc GST. A two year licence is even better value at $104.99," said Cameron.

"If you are simply looking for antivirus protection, a two year licence for the AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 product is now only A66.50 which equates to just over $30 per year."

Previously, AVG Internet Security 9.0 on one PC cost A$74.99 inc GST for a one year licence and A$109.99 for two years, while a two year licence for AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 was A$69.99.

AVG Security Predictions for 2010

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

by Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager, AVG (AU/NZ)

Melbourne, 26 November 2009 - Every year most of the security vendors' forecasts predict dramatic spikes in volumes of spam, phishing, botnet activity, and malware. And unfortunately, every year these predictions come true. While we'd like not to be sowing seeds of fear, uncertainty and doubt, the cyber criminals are succeeding on such a scale and making so much money, that each year they are able to invest in better and more automated ways to run their rapidly expanding and increasingly sophisticated operations. So once again we can safely predict that in 2010 the threat environment will look pretty much like this year - except that it will have more of everything and be even more transient, agile and organised!

More diverse, automatically generated malware

Today malicious code is written with more variants. The bad guys can now automatically create hundreds of thousands of unique pieces of malware a day, much of which has no unique signature and can bypass old fashioned signature based virus detection software. This makes it increasingly important for people to have more than just anti-virus protection on their computer.

More people will buy complete protection

The good news is that reputable security vendors like AVG now provide full Internet Security suites with multiple layers of protection. The majority of people that pay for security software now buy the full suite, complete protection solution instead of entry-level solutions. This trend continued through 2009, in spite of tougher economic times, and we expect it to be maintained in 2010.

The bad guys still want your money, identity and/or resources

For many years now most malicious code and web sites have been directly or indirectly about stealing your money, identity, computer resources, or some combination of these. In simple terms the cyber criminals:

Trick you to hand over money to them via social engineering and phishing scams. Yes, people still believe they can help that relative of a despot in Nigeria who needs their help to access squillions of dollars. They believe they've won a lottery they never entered. Or they believe that there really is a long lost, hugely wealthy, dead relative they've never heard of and that the kind and diligent lawyer will help them to get access to the estate.
Trick you into providing, or steal off of your computer, enough of your personal details so as to build up a dossier of information about you that is sufficient to trick someone else into providing them with money, goods or services. Expect to see even more legitimate-looking and personalised phishing attacks impersonating your bank or other businesses you have accounts with. Once the bad guys have your details they buy online using your credit card details and trick the merchant into providing them with goods or services. They steal online gaming usernames and passwords so as to gain access to your winnings in your favourite game world.
Make your computer into a part of their botnet. Then they can use your computer resources and Internet bandwidth to send out spam, host poisoned web pages, host downloads of illegal software, movies, music, xxx adult images, child pornography etc.

Cyber criminals in the cloud

To keep ahead of the computer security industry's efforts to thwart their activities, the "bad guys" have become quite agile. They are using "in the cloud" technologies in far more sophisticated and effective ways than most legitimate businesses. It was recently discovered that Google's AppEngine had been tapped to act as the master control channel to feed commands to large networks of infected computers in a botnet. (Google shut down the rogue app shortly after being notified of it.) We can expect more of this sort of activity in 2010.

Highly transient web threats

In 2010 we will see the cyber criminals continue to improve the speed with which they are able to move their campaigns from domain to domain, server to server. This is partly in response to improved detection and blocking methods deployed in updated security products like AVG LinkScanner®. In recent times we've been increasingly seeing the bad guys set up hundreds of thousands of new web sites and pages per day, well in advance of using them for nasty purposes. This enables them over a period of a week or so to gain a good rating in the reputation based security networks being used by some security vendors. Then the bad guys change their "innocent web pages" and go live with their malicious payloads on those same web pages. In early 2009, AVG researchers reported that 60% of these poisoned web threats were active for less than a day and 75% for less than 30 days. By the time the reputation based networks and blacklists are flagging these poisonous web sites and pages as bad, the cyber criminals have shut them down and moved them on to another domain or server.

Exploitation of major events, news and gossip

Some of these gangs of thieves have also recently enjoyed success in manipulating the popular online search services. They are clearly now investing more effort in such activities so they can, almost at the drop of a hat, get search results at or near the top of the first page of results. Should a celebrity die, an election be fought, some video clip "go viral", the bad guys quickly exploit the blossoming interest in that topic. The cyber criminals hijack search results into clicks on links to their malicious web pages. This is all a part of the bad guys moving away from "spray and pray" attacks into more premeditated attacks with specific objectives. Expect to see more highly targeted, convincing attacks with custom malware in 2010.

"Web two-point-uh-oh"

But that's all so "Web 1.0". What about "social media" and "Web 2.0" - that's where things are at now. Of course, the bad guys have not failed to notice this either and have been improving their own Web 2.0 skills while checking out the opportunities afforded by "Web two-point-uh-oh". The Koobface worm has been rattling around Facebook and a worrying number of its users for a while now. Along the way support has been added for MySpace, several other social networking sites and more recently Twitter and LinkedIn. Attacks that impersonate social networking sites or spoof contacts from your "friends" list, are more likely to be clicked on. So the bad guys exploit this trust. This approach seems to have a good return on investment for the financially motivated crooks behind it, and it's likely we'll see a great deal more of this kind of thing in 2010.

Emerging nations go online with poor security

The number of computers and number of people connected to the Internet is still growing fast. More and more people in places like China, India, Brazil etc. are going online with improved connection speeds. Sadly many of them are using pirated software that can't be kept up to date with security patches. This makes it easy for the bad guys to target those computers, get control of them and start using them as resources to power their criminal activities. We expect to see a big increase in threats being delivered via emerging countries in 2010.

Global economic crisis impacts security

Although the effects of the current economic downturn are quite unequally distributed, employment in the USA and some parts of Europe and Asia has taken a particularly hard hit. This can have a flow on effects.

Firstly, while there is no good data that I'm aware of to support the following suggestion, it is commonly accepted that violent and property crime rates rise during hard economic times. It's quite likely that more people will be tempted into becoming cyber criminals, especially as more organised underground channels are opened up.

Secondly, it seems likely that otherwise decent people facing increasingly desperate economic conditions, may be more likely to fall for the quick-money appeal of the Nigerian prince offering 40% of his fortune, or to ignore what in better times would be the obvious telltale signs of the too good to be true "work from home" scams and the like, favoured by so many cyber-criminals to effect their money laundering schemes. Or as a form of retribution, those who have lost their jobs will take valuable data with them, or details of how to access company resources, and it ends up in the hands of the cyber criminals.

Business still too complacent

If business IT and security managers have ensured that the workstations and servers the business uses are properly up-to-date and protected, that staff understand the threat landscape and know what to do as they move about with notebooks, then they too can be safe. It just requires constant vigilance and contingency planning. Sadly, events in 2009 showed that many businesses simply weren't properly protected.

The success of the exploits used to penetrate and establish Conficker into business and enterprise networks early in 2009 was largely because of complacency. The attitude common among certain business IT and security people is "we have a firewall to keep out worms and other network vulnerability-based attacks, and content filters to stop employees browsing porn, gaming and other 'dubious' sites".

This attitude means many businesses have poor update policies, which leave their networks well out of date on OS and application patches. These weaknesses are the stock-in-trade of the drive-by download exploits commonly used by the cyber criminals.

It also means business is ignoring the fact that the cyber criminals buy professional advertising served by legitimate ad-serving networks, and yes, even the biggest ad networks. These ads then appear on perfectly legitimate websites that employees are quite likely need to access to do their work. So we can expect to see more business damaged as the bad guys expand the use of this attack vector.

It will get worse before it gets better

Sadly, the security threats in 2010 are likely to be nastier than ever, more targeted and more frequent. With malware and cybercrime now being almost exclusively driven by organised crime running on a business model, changes are largely driven by criminal cost/benefit analysis of opportunities and risks.

The good news is that people don't need to worry if they understand the nature and purpose of the threats, can see through the scams and the "too good to be true" offers, have good Internet security protection on their computers and keep all of their software up-to-date. Do you measure up for a safe 2010?

As Christmas Nears, AVG (AU/NZ) Advises Shoppers How to Stay Safe Online

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 18 November 2009 - As Christmas shoppers everywhere head online looking for good deals, Internet security software distributor, AVG (AU/NZ) is promoting safe online shopping this holiday season.

"Online shopping offers many benefits, including the ability to shop at any time of the day or night that is convenient," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager, AVG (AU/NZ). "To help, we've developed a set of practical tips to help shoppers keep their personal information safe while they are saving time and getting great deals by shopping online."

"Just as we encourage people to be careful as they're shopping in a shopping mall or crowded store, everyone should take appropriate steps to protect themselves while shopping online," Borrett said. "Simple steps, like looking for the 'secure site' padlock on your browser page when purchasing, or making sure you're buying from a reputable company, can prevent potential headaches down the road."

AVG (AU/NZ) offers six tips for online shoppers this holiday season:

1. Look for the "S" for security. Make sure the web sites you are shopping from are secure and have "https" in the URL when you are in their checkout/purchase process. The "s" ensures security. When you are in the secure section of a web site, you will also see an icon for a locked padlock on your browser, either on the address bar or on the bottom right corner. Additionally, use the Internet to research online retailers not familiar to you. There are many sites such as www.getprice.com.au, www.eshop.com.au and others that provide info on retailers.

2. Stay current on security software. This means making sure you have the latest virus protection software updates from your security software provider. It's important because the bad guys move around frequently. Security software companies are working to stay one step ahead of them. If you are updated, you are staying one step ahead, too.

3. Think before you link. Employ a URL scanning tool to ensure you will be warned if you click on links that lead to infected web pages. The time to find out whether a page is bad is BEFORE you load it into your web browser. AVG LinkScanner does this. It's free, and it works with all other security and anti-virus offerings.

4. Keep your private information private. When shopping online, create a separate e-mail account that is just for shopping. Use a unique password, different from any other accounts you have. Your dedicated shopping e-mail account should be in no way affiliated with your personal, everyday e-mail account. Also, keep records of your online shopping - print confirmation pages and e-mail confirmations.

5. Mix up your passwords. Each shopping account, bank account, credit card account, and e-mail account should have a unique password. Write them down and keep the information in a secure location. Unique passwords for each account make it tougher for a thief to steal your personal information.

6. Use common sense. Make sure you use reasonable judgement when buying online and be on the lookout for spoof stores. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Take a minute or two to make sure it's not a fake/spoof web site. If the online retailer doesn't provide a physical address, or contact phone numbers, be cautious. Make sure you understand the refund and return policies of any online retailer you are planning to buy from, especially if it's based overseas, just in case something were to go wrong.

"More of us than ever before will be doing our Christmas shopping online this year," said Borrett. "But there is no reason to sacrifice security in the hunt for a great bargain. Following the simple tips above will help minimise the chances of you becoming a victim of online fraud or cyber criminals."

For more AVG security tips, see www.avg.com.au/resources/security-tips/.

AVG (AU/NZ) Again Wins Computer Troubleshooters' Vendor of the Year Award

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 4 November 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security software, has been awarded the title of 'Australian Vendor of the Year' by Australia's largest IT franchise, Computer Troubleshooters, for the second year running.

The more than 90 Computer Troubleshooters' franchisees across Australia vote on criteria including product and service quality, to decide which vendor adds the most value to their businesses throughout the year.

According to Computer Troubleshooters Australia National Director, Nick Roche: "AVG (AU/NZ)'s product quality is well known, but it is their service quality which has given them the credibility to win the award for the second time."

In presenting the award at the annual Computer Troubleshooters Asia Pacific Conference held in Melbourne last week Chip Reaves, Computer Troubleshooters' Global CEO, said: "AVG has been a consistent and valuable global partner over the past five years and it's great to see the local distributor recognised."

In accepting the award, Peter Cameron, Managing Director, AVG (AU/NZ) said: "We have been awarded the 2009 Computer Troubleshooters Vendor of the Year Award because we supply a standard of service to our clients and resellers that is simply better than they receive from any other vendor.

"Resellers deal with so many vendors. To be recognised by them as standing out in the crowd is an outstanding achievement. And to win it two years in a row is just fantastic. This is a well deserved thank you to our staff for continuing to go that extra step for our customers.

"And, after only four years in business, having also just been ranked number eight on the BRW Fast 100 List [October 2009], it's been a big month for AVG (AU/NZ)."

James Caldwell, AVG (AU/NZ)'s Channel Manager said: "The Computer Troubleshooters award is great encouragement for us to keep powering on, to find new ways for resellers to maximise the sales of our products. We will continue to invest to help secure the profitability of our channel."

To build on the growing relationship, AVG (AU/NZ) presented the inaugural 'Australian Computer Troubleshooters Reseller Award' at the Asia Pacific Conference. The selection was based on a combination of 2009 sales, growth and marketing of AVG products by an Australian Computer Troubleshooters outlet.

Nick Roche described the winner, Computer Troubleshooters' Sutherland franchise, as the fastest growing and best run operation in Sydney with its staff of seven handling quite a complex business. "In this situation, service and delivery is paramount. You really need reliable suppliers and strong technical support."

On accepting the award, Director of the Sutherland franchise, Raj Gurmukhani, said: "AVG (AU/NZ) has the best reseller program. It's very easy to manage renewals with their great web site. The award is a nice acknowledgement of our two-way loyalty."

About Computer Troubleshooters
Computer Troubleshooters offers computer repair, maintenance and networking services in all states of Australia. It has been Australia's largest IT franchise since 1997 and is part of the Computer Troubleshooters international franchise network providing onsite computer services to home and business users.

AVG (AU/NZ) Growing Fast in an Economy Looking for Security

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 2 November 2009 - Security software distributor AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd has been ranked 8th in the 2009 BRW Fast 100 list which was announced in Melbourne on 28 October.

The list tracks the 100 fastest growing SMEs and judges them by annual revenue growth averaged over the last three years. The BRW Fast 100 list has highlighted the rich diversity of Australia's fastest-growing businesses over the past 20 years.

Peter Cameron, Managing Director, AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd said: "Our average growth over the last three years has been 137%, which is quite an extraordinary rate. You can only sustain such growth with an enthusiastic reseller network, plus strong home and business product offerings, supported by dedicated, expert staff. And we have all of that."

AVG (AU/NZ) is a wholly owned Australian company and the distributor of the AVG range of Anti-Virus and Internet Security software products in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

"AVG (AU/NZ) counts one in every eight Australians as a customer so our place at number eight on the BRW Fast 100 list is a neat coincidence. I trust we'll be able to keep moving towards number one ranking over the next couple of years," Cameron said.

The AVG Free product has led the world in basic anti-virus protection for many years. About 20% of AVG users in Australia pay for the extra protection of the commercial products.

In June this year the remarkable success of the award-winning AVG family of Internet security products saw AVG (AU/NZ) listed as the 15th fastest growing company in Australia in BRW's 2009 Fast Starters listing.

Cameron said: "Keeping on top of Internet security and the needs of our 2500 strong reseller network requires a dynamic approach to business. We'd like to thank our resellers for helping us to achieve our continuing growth.

"The functionality and performance of the AVG security solutions is supported by our exceptional customer service. This combination won us the Computer Troubleshooters' Vendor of the Year Award in both 2009 and 2008. This award recognises the supplier which adds the most value to their businesses."

About BRW Fast 100

The BRW Fast 100 list has established a reputation as being the premier guide to the fastest growing small and medium businesses in Australia. The annual list ranks Australia's 100 fastest growing small and medium enterprises, with up to 200 staff, as measured by their annual revenue growth over a three year period. Companies from all of Australia's major vertical industries are represented in the Fast 100 list which is prepared in collaboration with Melbourne-based RMIT University School of Management.

AVG 9.0 Business Security Offerings Deliver Industrial-Strength Protection

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Smarter technology, faster scanning and improved ease-of-use mark latest release AVG 9.0 business solutions

Melbourne, 27 October 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, today announced the general availability of AVG's latest small business security products, AVG Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 and AVG Anti-Virus Business Edition 9.0. The new offerings leverage the significant enhancements in speed and levels of protection that AVG has delivered in its latest generation of consumer products, making it safer and easier to manage. With this announcement, AVG continues to improve its support for small businesses, many of which have limited or non-existent in-house IT capabilities.

"The AVG 9.0 small business security solutions provide businesses with more powerful and streamlined protection that deliver improved administration, more robust protection, and faster performance - all without getting in the way of business," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager at AVG (AU/NZ). "This generation of products highlights AVG's core strength of low impact, high performance security. AVG 9.0 SMB products add substantially to the portfolio of measures available to small businesses and their employees in working safe from cyber threats."

This release also comes with substantial price reductions. AVG has simplified its business software line-up, plus reduced prices. "The strengthening Australian dollar has also enabled us to reduce local pricing," said Borrett. "The combination means massive savings for our business customers."

Smarter Security That Won't Slow Your Business Down

To minimise the impact of protection on productivity, AVG's small business solutions now offer scan times that are up to 50 percent faster than earlier versions, depending on system configuration. The combined anti-virus/anti-spyware scanner employs new intelligent technology which marks files as safe or potentially unsafe during its initial scan, and ignores them in future scans unless the file structure changes. In addition, to counteract the increasing threats in today's online world, AVG's small business solutions combine both reactive and proactive technologies to deliver optimised protection in real-time. Building on a solid foundation of signature-based protection to deal with known threats, AVG 9.0 adds cutting-edge behavioural, in-the-cloud and white listing technologies to manage the threats posed by the tens of thousands of new threats that appear daily.

Make the Internet Safer for Your Business, Your Staff and Your Customers

Revolutionary in the AVG Internet Security offerings is the integration between the Resident Shield, Firewall, and Data Protection modules. This enables modules to share malware information, increasing AVG's ability to detect and remove most malicious types of malware, rootkits and other threats for which signatures have not yet been issued. The redesigned firewall application assists in keeping business information safe from known and unknown threats and is significantly quieter and less intrusive. The enhanced Firewall's trusted database of applications and application certificates enables AVG to determine, without user intervention, the relative safety of any active process and block any deemed unsafe. Additionally, because the new firewall cooperates behind the scenes with AVG's unique behavioural detection technology, it delivers significantly enhanced accuracy of threat detection.

Takes Care of Security While You Take Care of Business

AVG 9.0 for small business also includes key enhancements to minimise the management resources required. The new offerings incorporate cloning technology into the deployment process, simplifying and shortening installation time, and new system tools to enable administrators to customise the way AVG works to protect the network.

The new Update Manager automatically makes sure the business is always protected against the latest threats and the new Linux-based Rescue CD restores the network in the event an existing infection renders systems unbootable. Finally, AVG has made it significantly easier to detect and remove any third-party security product that could cause conflicts and interfere with the user's level of protection.

Keep Uninvited Guests Out of Your Office

Specific to AVG Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 is the addition of data protection functionality gained through AVG's acquisition of Sana Security earlier this year. The behavioural technology learns the DNA of a business' network so that it can recognise anomalies and block malicious processes, which dramatically improves protection against keyloggers and other crimeware. The new functionality in IDP will catch malicious software trying to hijack a system before it is able to cause any damage. To improve ease of use and administrator experience, Identity Protection (IDP) is manageable from the administrator's console or can be completely silent.

In addition, the client email scanner in AVG Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 cleans the email system of harmful message attachments and dangerous links. The enhanced client and server based anti-spam filters combine to prevent phishers, scammers and spammers from clogging workstations and email servers. Web shielding technology also minimises the risk of virus and other rogue software infections when downloading and exchanging files.

Availability and Pricing

AVG Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 and AVG Anti-Virus Business Edition 9.0 are available now at www.avg.com.au and through a network of over 2,500 independent software resellers throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Multi-packs are offered in five-seat increments with one and two year licence periods. Pricing for a one-year, five-seat license for AVG Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 starts at A$317.20 and a one-year, five-seat license for AVG Anti-Virus Business Edition 9.0 starts at A$204.99.

For more information on the complete range of AVG security products for small businesses, including AVG's File Server and Email Server editions, please visit www.avg.com.au/business-security/.

AVG's promise is to keep its customers fully up-to-date with the best protection available. Thus all AVG customers receive protection updates and software upgrades for free during the licence period. This delivers significant cost of ownership savings, especially with a two year licence.

Local Support

The above prices include free telephone support during Melbourne business hours, backed up by free 24/7 technical support by e-mail and online.

Be Safer Online with New, Faster AVG 9.0

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

AVG 9.0 delivers 50 percent faster speed, improved performance and ease of use

Melbourne, 6 October 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the world's most popular free anti-virus software, today announced the availability of a new family of paid internet security products, AVG 9.0. Boosted by significant enhancements in speed and levels of protection, AVG 9.0 is also easier to use and improves end user experience. AVG's new technology products ensure that users are safe in whatever activities they undertake in today's cyber criminal infested online world.

"AVG 9.0 will provide home computer users with a more powerful and more streamlined solution that adds protection without impacting user experience," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager at AVG (AU/NZ). "This continues AVG's core strength of low impact, high performance security."

"We've always believed that everyone has the right to a safe online experience. With AVG 9.0, we are ensuring that our users are safe from all of the threats posed by cyber criminals and identity thieves, whether they're working, playing, banking or shopping on the web."

AVG 9.0 - Faster. Safer. Easier to Use.

Because AVG knows scanning time is critical to its customers, scan optimisation is a top priority for AVG 9.0's combined anti-virus/anti-spyware scanner. It employs new technology which marks files as safe or potentially unsafe during the initial scan and skips the safe files in future scans, unless the file structure changes. As a result, users experience dramatically reduced scan times - by up to 50 percent depending on system configuration - as well as improvements of 10 to 15 percent for boot times and memory usage.

In order to face the increasing threats of today's online world, AVG 9.0 combines all modern technologies to optimise real time protection. Starting with the foundation of signature-based protection to deal with known threats, AVG 9.0 builds on top of that behavioural, in-the-cloud and white listing technologies to address the tens of thousands of new threats daily.

Revolutionary in AVG 9.0 is the integration between the Resident Shield, Firewall and Identity Protection modules. This enables the modules to share malware information with each other, increasing AVG's ability to detect and remove most malicious types of malware, rootkits and ID Theft threats, for which signatures have not yet been issued.

The firewall enhancements include a complete redesign to reduce intrusive questions from the firewall module by 50 percent. This makes the firewall module significantly quieter and less intrusive for users. Its new trusted database of known applications and application certificates allows the firewall, without user intervention, to decide whether it's safe to allow the application to communicate via the Internet, or if such communication should be blocked. Additionally, because the new firewall works behind the scenes with the behavioural detection technology in the AVG Identity Protection module, it can deliver one of the most accurate detection levels for new and unknown threats.

AVG 9.0 also delivers improved anti-phishing detection through enhancements to its LinkScanner® module. LinkScanner can now more quickly and accurately determine whether or not a web page is hosting a phishing attack. This is accomplished by allowing the software to apply more than 100 different potential threat indicators to a page. If the result is inconclusive, LinkScanner then makes a call to the cloud to check a multitude of phishing feeds plugged into the AVG research network, to make a final determination regarding threat potential.

AVG 9.0 delivers a solution that is laser focused on user concerns and protection. It's marked by a new look and feel designed to significantly improve user experience and ease of use. Responding to customer feedback, the AVG installation process has been shortened by 50 percent and the user protection process is dramatically simplified. Finally, it is also significantly easier for users to detect and remove any third-party security product that could cause conflicts with AVG 9.0 and interfere with the user's level of protection.

Expanded Reputation-Based Technology

"Some other security vendors have recently been announcing how they've introduced 'new' reputation-based security technology," said Borrett. "AVG already had this technology in its AVG 8.x product range. Indeed, West Coast Labs honoured AVG as the first vendor with a product to receive its Checkmark Anti-Malware Dynamic Certification.

"By expanding the use of reputation-based security technology in AVG9.0, we're able to provide an even better, worry-free experience for users," Borrett continued. "The combination of improved traditional detection methods with enhanced dynamic detection, white-listing, behavioural analysis and reputation-based technologies in AVG 9.0 enables users to get on with their online lives, safe in the knowledge that they're protected against new and unknown threats."

Availability, Compatibility and Pricing

The complete AVG 9.0 paid family of consumer products is available now. Pricing for a one-year, one PC licence for AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 is A$46.99, while a two-year, one PC licence for AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 is A$69.99.

A one-year, three PC licence for AVG Internet Security 9.0 is A$99.99, while a two-year, three PC licence for AVG Internet Security 9.0 is A$149.99.

The above prices include free telephone support during Melbourne business hours, backed up by free 24/7 technical support by e-mail and online. Also included is access to all protection updates and software upgrades for the term of the licence.

AVG 9.0 supports Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 computers running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of the operating system.

The AVG 9.0 security product range for consumers and small business is available for purchase and download from www.avg.com.au plus through a network of more than 2400 independent software resellers throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. AVG 9.0 consumer products are available singly and in multi-license packs for 3, 5 and 10 PCs, with a licence period of 1 or 2 years.

AVG Anti-Virus Free 9.0 will be available mid-October from www.avgfree.com.au.

All existing users of AVG consumer products will be automatically upgraded to AVG 9.0 for free in due course. This is AVG delivering on its commitment to keeping users up-to-date with the latest protection for the term of their licence.

Keep in touch with AVG

For up-to-the-minute news on the latest cyber threats:

Subscribe to AVG Chief Research Officer Roger Thompson's blog at http://thompson.blog.avg.com/

For general AVG updates:

Join our Facebook community at www.facebook.com/avgfree
Follow AVG on Twitter www.twitter.com/officialAVGnews

OPSWAT and AVG Technologies Partner to Enhance Application Removal

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Easy-to-Use, Valuable AppRemover Tool now included as part of AVG product offerings

Melbourne, San Francisco and Amsterdam, 23 September 2009 - OPSWAT, Inc., the leading provider of software development tools and data services to power manageability and security solutions, today announced that it has partnered with AVG Technologies, developers of the world's most popular free anti-virus software. The partnership will add OPSWAT's AppRemover™ technology to AVG's security solutions, and, as part of the agreement, AVG will distribute AppRemover as a standalone application within its security offerings, further demonstrating the company's commitment to providing their customers with excellent support.

Designed with simple, easy-to-use controls, AppRemover is a valuable tool for end users, system administrators and antivirus, antispyware and support solution vendors that want to ensure seamless removal of endpoint security applications. It is available as a standalone GUI rich application, an API or a command line interface targeted at software developers interested in creating their own silent uninstallation agents.

AppRemover™ should be used when:

One security application is being replaced with another
An uninstallation procedure fails, is interrupted or is incomplete leaving a user's computer functioning improperly
Either the application password or a connection to the security application server is unavailable

"OPSWAT is already one of AVG's key technology partners, and we're very pleased to take our relationship to this next level," said Ben Kaplan, director of product management, AVG Technologies. "Adding the AppRemover utility to our product offerings will greatly reduce our support requests and empower our endpoint users. This integration is a great step that helps cement AVG's position as a leader in anti-malware application usability."

"This utility is ideal for security software and technology vendors seeking to add a complete uninstall feature to their product," said Tom Mullen, Vice President of Business Development at OPSWAT, Inc. "Unstalling antivirus applications can be fraught with difficultly. AppRemover answers market demand for an easy-to-use program that eliminates superfluous files and registry keys left by various IT security solutions. AppRemover significantly reduces support cases associated with implementing user upgrades and competitive replacements and will help any users looking to upgrade to the latest version of AVG's products."

AppRemover™ version 2.1 supports hundreds of applications on Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 operating systems. Additionally, the application supports full security suites and adds functionality to complete partial or interrupted uninstallations. AppRemover™ is free for personal and non-commercial use - please visit www.appremover.com to download. If you are interested in a commercial or OEM license for AppRemover™, please visit OPSWAT's website or contact sales@opswat.com.

AVG Scoops Up Security Industry Awards

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG's Internet Security Software Awarded Multiple Certifications

Melbourne, 2 September 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the world's most popular free anti-virus software, today announced a string of important industry awards for its AVG Internet Security product.

AVG Internet Security received the coveted VB100 Award from UK-based Virus Bulletin. Business Solutions Magazine (BSM) subscribers selected AVG Internet Security SBS Edition a "Best Channel Product" in two categories - Email Security and Endpoint Security. And AVG Internet Security became the first product to receive the Checkmark Anti-Malware Dynamic Certification from West Coast Labs.

AVG Internet Security is a comprehensive security solution which protects computer users while they are online. It provides protection against viruses, spyware, rootkits, spam, and all types of malware that can threaten valuable personal information. AVG Internet Security also boasts real-time safe surf protection from AVG LinkScanner. Advanced behavioural technology delivered by AVG Identity Protection (also part of the product), provides an extra layer of protection. It protects against new and unknown threats and safeguards the user's identity.

Key Industry Certifications

The Virus Bulletin lab awarded AVG Internet Security a VB100 certification for passing its test criteria in the VB lab as part of the formal VB comparative review process. AVG received the third highest Reactive Percentage (RAP) of all products tested. The reactive percentage measures detection of new items first seen in the three weeks prior to the test. Basic requirements for the VB100 award include:

The product delivers in its default settings 100% detection of malware listed as 'In the Wild' by the WildList Organisation at the time of the review,
No false positives occur when scanning Virus Bulletin's collection of known-clean files.

Business Solutions Magazine (BSM) named AVG Internet Security Small Business Server (SBS) Edition a "Best Channel Product" in the categories of Email Security and Endpoint Security. AVG Internet Security SBS provides antivirus, antispyware, rootkit, and desktop anti-spam protection for Microsoft Windows Small Business Server networks. It protects every component of the small business network, provides central management and monitoring, and automatic updates. These features dramatically simplify administration for IT staff. AVG LinkScanner, which delivers unique technology to let users safely surf the web with real-time protection, is included as part of AVG Internet Security SBS.

BSM collaborated with Penn State University to survey 2,186 channel professionals to determine the Best Channel Product recipients. Products were reviewed on richness of features/functionality, product reliability/durability, ease of integration and upgrade, and a VAR's ability to service the product.

Anti-Malware Dynamic Certification

West Coast Labs honoured AVG Internet Security as the first product ever to receive its Checkmark Anti-Malware Dynamic Certification. The testing program for security products comprises ongoing testing against malware samples. The test suite for the Dynamic Testing is refined to reflect prevalence within attack vectors and by geography. Samples for the testing are collected in real-time around the world.

"Today's web-based, transient threats and skilled cyber criminals are more cunning than ever, which means that users need products they can trust. AVG is honoured to receive these awards based on product performance and user preference," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager at AVG (AU/NZ). "We have always been confident in our internet security technology, but receiving these awards and key certifications are great achievements. We will continue to strive to develop the best internet security products on the market and are committed to continuing to deliver quality solutions to our users."

Links

For security news analysis, subscribe to Roger Thompson's blog at http://thompson.blog.avg.com/
For breaking news, follow AVG on Twitter at http://twitter.com/officialAVGnews
Become a fan of AVG's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/avgfree
For more information about Business Solutions Magazine, go to www.businesssolutionsmag.com/
For more information about Virus Bulletin, go to www.virusbtn.com
For more information about West Coast Labs, go to www.westcoastlabs.com

AVG Protects Campuses from Online Threats

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Partners with Star-Tech to Offer Students a 90-day Free Trial of AVG Internet Security

Melbourne, 31 August 2009 - Effective today, students in university accommodation across Australia are being offered a 90-day free trial of the award-winning AVG Internet Security software under a new partnership between AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, and Australian Internet Service Provider (ISP) Star-Tech Communications.

Star-Tech is Australia's largest private provider of managed broadband Internet services in the university residential accommodation sector. It currently has 17 live university residential sites across all mainland states with many more in the pipeline.

Jean Morel, Division General Manager of Star-Tech, said, "We use AVG Internet Security ourselves and we know from our research that AVG's well-trusted anti-virus and Internet security products are already very popular within the university sector. Students are very careful with their money and look for good, reliable products. We're very confident in offering AVG with its multiple layers of protection to them."

The AVG LinkScanner protection layer allows students to search and surf the web - safe from online threats. LinkScanner checks each web page students try to view in real-time, it blocks the exploits hosted on the hundreds of thousands of poisoned web sites created each day.

Finally, the AVG Identity Protection layer blocks new and unknown threats, including botnets. When the bulk of online threats are trying to steal personal information, it's vital to have protection against identity theft.

AVG (AU/NZ) Marketing Manager, Lloyd Borrett, said: "Students can then safely surf the Internet, send and receive emails, download music, movies and do their shopping and banking online without fear of being infected or having their identity compromised. This is of prime importance to the many international students who use the internet to manage finances and as a lifeline between home and Australia. The trial includes automatic updates and real-time scans to deliver maximum protection."

Students can take advantage of the AVG offer simply by clicking through from the Star-Tech on-line log-in page to the software download. At the completion of the 90-day free trial students can then purchase a 12 or 24 month licence for AVG Internet Security.

Peter Cameron, Managing Director of AVG (AU/NZ) said: "Our relationship with Star-Tech is the first of our partnerships with education-based organisations. We are really delighted to be able to work with a partner who is so focussed on this market. The AVG offering for education is attractive to students as well as schools and educational focussed organisations."

About Star-Tech Communications - www.startech.com.au
Registered as an Internet Service Provider (ISP) with the TIO and ACMA, and established in 1989, Star-Tech Communications is a leading provider of instant, paperless broadband distribution solutions and triple-play services for universities and colleges, as well as the government, hospitality, and corporate sectors, specialising in Ethernet, VDSL, and wireless technologies.

Social Networking Poll Shows Users More Vulnerable Than Ever

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG and CMO Council survey shows that the widespread and growing use of social networks at home and work is creating serious danger of web-borne identity theft and infection

Melbourne, 26 August 2009 — The results of Bringing Social Security to the Online Community poll were released today, highlighting the vulnerabilities and concerns of social community members around cyber security and the precautions that they are taking, or need to take, to protect themselves. The online survey conducted by AVG Technologies and the CMO Council reveals that while the social networking community has serious concerns about the overall security of public spaces, few are taking the most basic of steps to protect themselves against online crimes.

The survey shows that while the majority of social networking users are afflicted by web-borne security problems, less than one third are taking actions to protect themselves online.

Participants indicated concern over growing phishing, spam and malware attacks, and nearly half of those surveyed are very concerned about their personal identity being stolen in an online community.

The survey was conducted online during the second quarter of 2009 and gathered responses from a random sampling of more than 250 consumers. According to the poll results, despite widespread use (86 percent) of social networks at home and/or at work, most fail to perform the following basic security measures on a regular basis:

Changing passwords (64 percent infrequently or never)
Adjusting privacy settings (57 percent infrequently or never)
Informing their social network administrator (90 percent infrequently or never)

"As social networking populations grow globally and the proliferation of niche social networks and mobile offerings extends the reach of social communities, the threats and vulnerabilities are escalating accordingly," said Donovan Neale-May, executive director of the CMO Council. "More frequent breaches and outbreaks on popular social sites are a testament to the need for a more preventative mindset and threat-alert culture among community users."

Despite the apparent security risks and dangers of engaging in social networking sites, respondents identified several common practices that could cause harm to unprotected users:

21 percent accept contact offerings from members they don't recognise
More than half let acquaintances or roommates access social networks on their machines
64 percent click on links offered by community members or contacts
26 percent share files within social networks

As a result of this widespread proliferation of links, files, and unsolicited contacts, users have experienced high levels of breaches and threats:

Nearly 20 percent have experienced identity theft
47 percent have been victims of malware infections
55 percent have seen phishing attacks

"The fact that users understand the risks, and yet are failing to take the basic steps to protect themselves presents an interesting challenge to companies, like AVG, that are working to create a safer cyber community," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager, AVG (AU/NZ).

According to Borrett, AVG hopes to reverse this trend on familiar turfs such as Facebook and Twitter. "We are trying to get consumers thinking about their personal security, plus provide them with simple tools to do something about it when they are in the spaces that make them feel the most vulnerable."

Borrett said that AVG is about combining sound technology with safe practices so as to provide everyone with peace of mind so that they can enjoy the social computing experience. In addition to encouraging users to take advantage of AVG's free security offerings at http://www.avgfree.com.au, Borrett encourages users to use the following simple steps:

Six Simple Steps to Stay Secure:

Do not accept pop-ups or prompts for software, unless you're armed with web scanner software such as AVG's free LinkScanner, which checks each site for infections prior to access.
Do not ever provide, post, or submit any confidential personal data (e.g., SSN, banking details, medical records). Social networking sites do not require this sort of information to join, unless you're online dating or paying monthly.
Change your password at least once a month. Do not change it if you're prompted to. This can be a third party malicious link.
Do not let friends, peers, co-workers, etc. access their social networks on your computer, nor yours on their machine. Others could introduce infections to your computer through unsafe practices, or your login security could be compromised via cookies saved on your computer.
Never auto save your password information, and clear your history at least once a week.
Do not accept friend requests or request friends that you personally do not know.

A full summary presentation of the survey results and implications is available at http://www.avg.com.au/files/media/avg_socialsecurity_2009-08-26_au.pdf

Keep in touch with AVG

For up-to-the-minute news on the latest cyber threats:

Subscribe to AVG Chief Research Officer Roger Thompson's blog at http://thompson.blog.avg.com/

For general AVG updates:

Join our Facebook community at www.facebook.com/avgfree
Follow AVG on Twitter @officialavgnews

To download AVG's free LinkScanner product:

Visit http://www.avgfree.com.au/

AVG LinkScanner Is Making the Internet Clean and Safe, A Half Million Computers At A Time

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Marks 500,000 LinkScanner Downloads Since Launch;
Prevents Bad Guys from Forming New Botnets

Melbourne, Tuesday 11 August 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the world's most frequently downloaded free anti-virus software, today announced the half-millionth download of the AVG LinkScanner® software, a free product that protects consumers against web-based security threats and prevents their computers from being recruited for botnets like the ones that brought down Twitter and Facebook last week.

AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 8.5 for Windows is designed specifically to protect against Trojans, spyware, rootkits and other malware that tries to steal your private information via compromised web pages, where the bulk of computer infections are happening today. This includes backdoors that are created by infections that allow botnets the ability to access a computer.

LinkScanner provides an additional, invisible layer of protection that lets you search and surf the Web safely. Moreover, this protection is provided in real-time, which is the only way consumers can stay protected against transient threats - 60 percent of which last less than a day before moving on to another site - that occur even on well known and trusted websites.

"A few years ago we had the bad guys almost beaten by blocking their attacks with firewalls, email scanning engines, and some simple heuristics. But then they created ways to exploit the websites that we all visit with a trusted browser," said Lloyd Borrett, AVG (AU/NZ) Marketing Manager.

"The cyber criminals have become so good at it that even a trained eye can't tell when a web page might be harvesting your private information or dropping some attack code onto your computer. That changed the game. AVG LinkScanner was created specifically to spot web-borne malware and alert computer users to hostile web pages. In real-time."

In keeping with AVG's promise to keep the Internet safe for all, AVG offers LinkScanner free for home use. AVG also lets LinkScanner work alongside most existing security software already present on consumers' computers. This includes competitors' software.

"We're doing our part to stop the spread of cyberthreats; 500,000 customers protected by LinkScanner means that roughly eleven new botnets won't be formed," continued Borrett. "So, LinkScanner customers, go ahead and click where you want - we'll keep you and the Internet safe."

Where to Download

AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 8.5 for Windows can be can be downloaded for free as a stand-alone product from http://www.avgfree.com.au. LinkScanner is also included as a protection layer in many of AVG's home security products http://www.avg.com.au/home-office-security/ and business security products http://www.avg.com.au/business-security/. It is also included with AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5, which is AVG's free basic antivirus and antispyware solution for home users.

Support is available through a free online forum hosted by AVG Technologies at http://forums.avg.com.

For security news analysis, subscribe to Roger Thompson's blog at http://thompson.blog.avg.com/
For breaking news, follow AVG on Twitter @officialAVGnews.com

Online Criminals Learn From Twitter, Warns AVG (AU/NZ)

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

E-mail spammers now using tiny URLs to better entrap victims

Melbourne, 14 July 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and AVG Internet Security products, today warned that online criminals have learnt via Twitter how using small/tiny URL links can increase click-through rates and entrap more people. Twitter users should protect themselves from online spammers who have begun using the platform for criminal activities.

AVG (AU/NZ) Marketing Manager, Lloyd Borrett, said Twitter's recent global surge in popularity has encouraged spammers and other online criminals to take advantage of the tiny URL links used within Twitter to target unsuspecting users.

"To some people small or tiny URL links look more legitimate than longer links. However, they can actually hide suspect links from people who know what to look for. Small URLs make scam URLs harder to spot for Twitter users, thus the criminals get more people clicking through to their malicious web pages.

"The cyber-criminals have learnt from this. Over the past month, we've seen a significant increase in the number of spam e-mails using tiny URL links to camouflage links to poisoned and scam web pages. The bad guys now know they'll get more click-throughs if they use small URL links."

Borrett said AVG LinkScanner offers users the best defence against the use of small URL links to obfuscate poisoned links on Twitter and in e-mails.

"AVG LinkScanner provides guaranteed protection by scanning the web page of every link users click on. LinkScanner resolves the small URL and scans the final web page in real-time, instantly checking it for any potential threats before allowing the browser to display the web page. If a threat is detected, the user is warned.

"So AVG users can continue to click on links from Twitter and in their e-mails with confidence. Because AVG LinkScanner is already integrated into AVG's suite of award-winning Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, existing users are fully protected," he said.

AVG Technologies has a 'neighbourhood watch' approach to LinkScanner research, encouraging its 80 million-plus users to opt-in and feed back information to AVG. This assists AVG in warning users about suspect scammy pages.

AVG LinkScanner is also available as a free standalone protection layer for any personal home computer, regardless of what other security software people are using. Users can download AVG LinkScanner at www.avgfree.com.au.

AVG (AU/NZ) Achieves Record Sales, Adds Headcount Despite Recession

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 7 July 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, has thumbed its nose at the "global financial crisis", achieving strong continued growth with record sales in April 2009 followed closely by the second highest month ever in May 2009. This growth has led the company to increase its headcount by seven in the last three months, bringing it to a total of more than 30 staff in the region. AVG (AU/NZ) has also achieved a ranking of 15 in the just-announced 2009 BRW Fast Starters List, up from No. 48 last year.

AVG (AU/NZ) Managing Director, Peter Cameron, said sales revenue for April 2009 was 115 per cent higher than in April 2008. Overall sales results for the first quarter 2009 showed a 101 per cent growth over the same period in 2008.

"We've achieved excellent results in the last financial year, with many months of record sales. And of course we're delighted to have made it into BRW's Fast Starters list for the second year in a row, highlighting our strong performance in this market."

Preliminary figures show that AVG (AU/NZ) has achieved just over 63 per cent sales revenue growth for the full 2008-2009 financial year. Cameron said this was the result of superior technology, supported by an innovative and highly effective business model.

"Our market is primarily consumers and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). We are very focused on those sectors with carefully tailored offerings that meet their security needs at a very affordable price. The expansion of our Client Care teams has enabled us to continue to provide service and support of the highest calibre to our clients and resellers. Unlike many of our competitors, there is no charge for this support for our commercial clients," Cameron continued.

Innovative Model Delivers Results

"The AVG Technologies' model of seeding the market with free product and then encouraging users to upgrade at their convenience has allowed us to build high brand awareness and substantial market share. We now have a market share much higher than certain respected industry analysts give us credit for," Cameron said.

"Across the full product range, we are protecting more than 2.7 million users in Australia, and more than 500,000 users in New Zealand. That's a very solid base on which to continue to build and grow our business."

Multi-Tier Distribution Model Works for Everyone

AVG (AU/NZ) operates a multi-tiered distribution strategy, working with its more than 2350 resellers, plus major corporate partners, to roll out its security solutions. The company has found that the combination of its proven technology, comprehensive local support services and the powerful backing of AVG Technologies, make an attractive package for companies interested in offering trial versions of AVG to their customers. In recent weeks AVG (AU/NZ) has announced such partnerships with both Suncorp Bank and 3 Mobile Broadband.

"We recognise that small business and home consumers are cautious about how they spend their money and appreciate the opportunity to trial software before making an investment. By allowing them to experience the quality of our software, services and support, we have been successful in converting hundreds of thousands of users to the AVG brand," said Cameron.

"We're also seeing this translate into small business customer growth as consumers, having seen how well our products work at home, then choose to implement them at work.

"Another interesting development is a strong trend towards customers purchasing our premium AVG Internet Security integrated security suite solution. Rather than settling for the base product as they did a few years ago, most customers now purchase the best level of online protection available.

"As people increasingly use online services they are more aware of the need for a comprehensive security solution. People want peace-of-mind and AVG Internet Security truly delivers, especially now that the new AVG Identity Protection is included in the 8.5 version."

Business Operations Expanded to Support Sales Growth

Cameron said AVG (AU/NZ) is extremely committed to the Oceania marketplace, improving services and expanding its local team.

"We're just coming to the end of the first stage of a managed business expansion programme. We've added seven new personnel in the past three months. The extra people, combined with other systems and operational changes, have allowed us to extend our service and support offerings and further enhance the way in which we touch our customers and channel partners.

"The AVG (AU/NZ) team is excited about stage two and are looking forward to being better able to serve our customers. Still we have more to do. Just yesterday an AVG reseller gave us a brilliant insight as to how we could do something to make the sales process much easier for many of our resellers. Our team is already working to make it happen.

"We're here for the long haul and plan to cement AVG's position as a leading provider of security software solutions in this market," he said.

3 offers free AVG Internet Security

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 29 June 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd today announced that it has partnered with 3 to deliver a free 12 month subscription to the premium AVG Internet Security software suite for all 3 Mobile Broadband customers.

From today, all 3 Mobile Broadband customers (prepaid and postpaid) can log on and register for the download on the My 3 portal.

AVG Internet Security is AVG's premium solution providing real-time protection against traditional and new online threats including viruses, spyware, rootkits, malware, identity theft, plus spam and fraudulent emails.

"Access to Mobile Broadband has now become a day-to-day necessity for many consumers and small and medium businesses," said Klaas Raaijmakers, 3's Head of Broadband.

"Secure access and data protection is even more critical and we're committed to ensuring our customers can email, download and surf the Internet with the comfort that they are protected from online threats."

Peter Cameron, AVG (AU/NZ) Managing Director, added, "We are delighted that 3's Mobile Broadband customers will now be able to always feel safe when they go online, just like more than 80 million AVG users worldwide."

When the 12 month period ends, customers can choose to subscribe online and continue to be fully protected by AVG Internet Security .

For further information about this offer visit www.three.com.au/internetsecurity

About 3
3 is Australia's first 3G network and provides services to more than 2 million customers in Australia. Since launch in 2003, 3 has been servicing businesses with great value voice and data services as well as innovative tools like Mobile Broadband, Business Shared Caps, Mobile Email and other business services and content in 3's Broadband Zones.

3 launched Australia's first 3G mobile network in April 2003, now fully HSDPA enabled, and has over 2 million customers in Australia and over 20 million customers worldwide. 3 was also the first operator to launch cap plans in Australia in 2003.
During 2008, customers generated 199 million internet access and Planet 3 events and 68% of 3's customers paid for these services each month.
3's Broadband Zones are available in most parts of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra and the Gold Coast. We reach 96% of Australians with Talk, SMS, MMS, IM and Email.

AVG Protects Suncorp Bank Customers from Online Threats

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Internet Security 90-day free trial and discounted licence combines protection and value

Melbourne, 25 June 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, today announced it has joined forces with Suncorp Bank to offer a free 90-day trial and discounted licence of the award-winning AVG Internet Security software to the bank's customers.

Suncorp Bank launched the 90-day free trial of AVG Internet Security on its website to coincide with National E-security Awareness Week.

Simon Clarke, Internet Banking Specialist from Suncorp Bank's eChannels team, said the company had been considering its options for a security software offer when it was approached by AVG (AU/NZ). "I was already familiar with AVG and knew them to be a reliable vendor with a high quality product, so we were happy to explore a joint opportunity," he said.

"Our customers can take advantage of the AVG offer by clicking the "Online Security" link (http://www.suncorp.com.au/suncorp/security/default.aspx) on the Suncorp website, which allows them to quickly and easily download the trial software. Then for 90 days they can safely surf the Internet, send and receive emails, download music, movies and do their shopping and banking online without any fear of being infected or having their identity compromised. The trial includes automatic updates and real-time scans to deliver maximum protection.

"Not only does this special offer give our customers free access to best-of-breed security software for 90 days, but AVG has put together a highly attractive price for those wanting to upgrade to a 12 or 24 month licence at the end of the trial," Clarke concluded.

AVG (AU/NZ) Marketing Manager, Lloyd Borrett, said the offer is designed to ensure that Suncorp Bank customers are fully protected from the many online threats that can negatively impact their lives.

"Today, much of what you value is on your computer, such as the usernames and passwords you use to access your bank accounts and financial records, your photographs, music, email and important documents," he said. "Suncorp Bank's customers who take up this special offer can feel comfortable as they freely engage in their online activities. The multiple layers of protection provided in the premium AVG Internet Security suite keeps them safe."

AVG Internet Security delivers real-time protection against traditional malware threats, including the nearly fifty thousand virus, spyware, adware, worm, rootkit and Trojan threats created each day. This protection is then expanded with a two-way firewall and anti-spam to keep the bad guys out and junk mail spam out of the inbox. The AVG LinkScanner protection layer allows people to search and surf the web in total safety from hundreds of thousands of online threats and poisoned web sites created each day. Finally, the AVG Identity Protection layer prevents new and unknown threats, including botnets, from being able to steal personal information.

At the completion of the 90-day free trial, Suncorp Bank customers will have the opportunity to subscribe for a 12 or 24 month licence at a 15 per cent discount off RRP.

"The combination of the free trial and discounted licence subscription ends up saving Suncorp customers around 40 per cent of the normal cost of protecting their computer from attack over a 12 month period. It's a risk-free way to fully protect themselves online," Borrett said.

He said AVG (AU/NZ) welcomed the opportunity to partner with a high profile financial institution like Suncorp Bank.

"Most people rank online banking as one of the top online activities that makes their lives easier. While all banks are actively encouraging their customers to conduct their transactions online, we appreciate the responsible position Suncorp has taken to ensure its customers have greater peace of mind with all their online transactions. We are delighted to be Suncorp's partner of choice in the security software space," Borrett concluded.

AVG Technologies Receives Yet Another Virus Bulletin 100 Certification

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Internet Security Network Edition Obtains VB100 Certification

Melbourne, 18 June 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ), the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, announced today that AVG Internet Security Network Edition received VB100 certification from UK based Virus Bulletin.

AVG Internet Security Network Edition (version 8.5) was tested. "AVG proved very stable and reliable, and achieved excellent detection rates across the board. A superb performance which comfortably earned a VB100 award," stated Virus Bulletin Test Team Director John Hawes. Certification testing for products running on the 64-bit version of Windows Server 2003 took place during April and May. AVG Internet Security was one of only four products to achieve a Reactive and Proactive Protection percentage exceeding 80%.

VB100 Test Procedures

The VB100 (virus) award is granted to any product that passes the test criteria under test conditions in the VB lab as part of the formal VB comparative review process. Basic requirements are that the product delivers in its default settings:

100% detection of malware listed as 'In the Wild' by the WildList Organization at the time of the review
No false positives when scanning Virus Bulletin’s collection of known-clean files

"We are pleased to receive the latest VB100 certification from Virus Bulletin," stated Karel Obluk, Chief Technology Officer for AVG Technologies. "Valid testing and certification by qualified organisations benefits both vendors and customers. It holds us to a higher performance standard in developing solutions. It gives customers knowledgeable 3rd party validation of the products they are evaluating for use on specific platforms."

Other recent comparative tests in the last year where AVG Technologies obtained VB100 certification were for Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista x64, and Windows XP Professional platforms. AVG has received VB100 certifications in every test it has entered over the past year.

AVG Internet Security Network Edition provides antivirus, antispyware, and anti-rootkit protection for workstations and file servers. The combination of LinkScanner®, its real-time scanner, comprehensive web shield, and high-speed automatic updates ensures that customers are protected around the clock. Centralised installation and configuration delivers easy implementation.

www.virusbtn.com

Virus Bulletin started out in 1989 as a magazine dedicated to the anti-virus industry. Virus Bulletin quickly became the leading specialist testing body in the field of viruses and related malware. Today, Virus Bulletin is an online security information portal and certification body. Virus Bulletin provides users with independent intelligence about the latest developments in the anti-malware and anti-spam fields, as well as conducting bimonthly certifications of anti-malware and anti-spam products. Virus Bulletin is supported by an Advisory Board comprising some of the world's leading anti-malware and anti-spam experts.

Protect Your Privacy with AVG Security Toolbar

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Cover your Internet tracks and prevent snoopers tracking your online activities.

Melbourne, 12 June 2009 - Browsing on the Internet is a largely anonymous activity. However, you also leave tracks on the computer, with details of every web site you visit, downloads and searches you've made, plus other online activities.

The AVG Security Toolbar comes included with most of the antivirus and Internet security products from AVG Technologies. A recent free update to the AVG Security Toolbar has added a new feature whereby you can now easily remove the complete history kept by your browser. Or you can selectively remove your search, web sites visited and download history, plus your cookies.

If you're using a shared computer and you don't want other people to be able to snoop and view your online activities for any reason, this is the answer.

AVG Introduces Streamlined, Highly-Scalable Protection for Linux

Thu, 07 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

New AVG 8.5 for Linux combines e-mail and file server protection - adds free workstation protection

Melbourne, 8 May 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd distributor for Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific of the award-winning AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products, has announced the release of significantly improved and updated implementations of the AVG anti-malware solutions for Linux platforms. AVG 8.5 for Linux, available in both server and free workstation editions, offers streamlined scanning capabilities, new anti-virus filtering and improved performance and ease of use for Linux-based users.

Though not as prevalent as on Windows operating systems, Windows malware can and does impact Linux systems. Additionally, Windows-based workstations are frequently attached to Linux-based servers in the network. AVG 8.5 for Linux provides centralised anti-malware protection for those systems.

AVG Server Edition 8.5 for Linux/FreeBSD provides protection for both e-mail and file servers in a single distribution package. It is robust enough to support millions of e-mails a day, thereby suitable for use by even large enterprises and ISPs.

AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5 for Linux/FreeBSD provides basic anti-malware protection for Linux workstations.

AVG 8.5 for Linux offers both network managers and workstation users:

A streamlined scanning engine that detects and removes viruses, worms, spyware, Trojans, keyloggers and other malware in a single pass.
Heuristic emulation for improved detection of new and unknown malware types.
New avflt anti-virus filter! A RedirFS-based on-access scanner for improved performance, along with simplified installation and deployment.
Improved system resource handling through shared memory usage.
Increased scalability through support for 64-bit and multi-CPU architecture, new multi-core CPUs.
A fully modular solution, further reducing the number of necessary restarts.

RedirFS, or redirecting filesystem, is a new layer between virtual filesystem switch (VFS) and filesystem drivers. It is implemented as an out-of-kernel module for Linux 2.6.25 and provides a framework to allow modification of filesystem calls in the VFS layer.

"We are particularly proud of the RedirFS element in AVG 8.5 for Linux," said AVG Technologies CTO Karel Obluk. "The original intention was to discover possible ways of implementing an on-access scanner for the Linux kernel as an alternative to the Dazuko project. Since that time, the RedirFS project has evolved to the general framework of Linux 2.6. We have released the RedirFS as open source. This will enable much broader functionality than on-access scanning."

AVG 8.5 for Linux is distribution-independent. It has been tested to run under FreeBSD, Mandrake, Mandriva, Fedora Core, DebIan, SUSE, Red Hat, Red Flag, Ubuntu, and other distributions using Debian packaging.

Licensing for AVG Server Edition 8.5 for Linux/FreeBSD is per connection, with pricing on a tiered basis. One and two year licence subscriptions are available. The product is available directly for purchase and download direct from www.avg.com.au, or through one of AVG (AU/NZ)'s more than 2200 resellers throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

The AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5 for Linux/FreeBSD workstation product may be downloaded from www.avgfree.com.au/downloads/.

Support for existing versions of AVG for Linux will be phased out on 15 May 2009. Users are encouraged to contact their reseller or AVG (AU/NZ) to upgrade their protection as soon as possible.

AVG Technologies Opens International Research Centre

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Malware TRAP Centre will enhance the discovery of new strains of computer threats and prevent their spread across the Internet.

Amsterdam and Melbourne, 27 April 2009 - AVG Technologies, the global Internet security company with over 80 million customers, today announces the opening of its international research centre in Brno, Czech Republic. The AVG Malware TRAP Centre (M-TRAP - Malware Trending, Reporting, Analysis, and Prevalence) gathers and analyses information on malware and how it spreads across the Internet.

Social networking tools are increasingly opening us up to risk of attack by malware. It is much easier to inadvertently spread worms to our friends' PCs than ever before. However, it's not just social networking sites that are at risk - our computer peripherals are being targeted too. Researchers have identified a cyber espionage network, dubbed Ghostnet, which is capable of taking full control of infected computers - including searching and downloading specific files and operating attached devices like microphones and web-cameras. It is now more important than ever to be searching for these threats before they become a big problem.

The M-TRAP researchers run the malware under quarantine conditions and obtains the data via AVG's 80 million users around the world. The researchers observe behaviour and speeds, allowing them to create a cure against the malware. Karel Obluk, CTO of AVG Technologies and the initiator of the project, says: "M-TRAP will search for interconnections to detect and prevent the spread of malware. We are seeing a rise in malware targeting social networking sites and we will be using the research results to develop new technologies for the ongoing and effective fight against these computer threats".

The AVG Malware TRAP Centre team consists of five IT professionals. The M-TRAP research centre is run in conjunction with the Faculty of Information Technologies (FIT) of Brno University of Technology and the partnership will enable students to work in the labs to gain work experience. "In the past we supported a number of research projects at the FIT. Following the opening of our research centre we will provide the undergraduate and graduate students with opportunity to take part in its research activities," added Obluk.

The Brno Centre is one of three research facilities for AVG Technologies dedicated to discovering malicious codes, and helps to cement AVG Technologies as the leader in global Internet security.

AVG Technologies is Double Winner of 2009 Global Excellence Awards

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Internet Security for consumers and AVG Internet Security Network Edition for businesses among top products named by Info Security Products Guide

Amsterdam, 21 April 2009 - AVG Technologies, a leading developer of Internet security software, announced today that a pair of its security solutions won prestigious 2009 Global Product Excellence Customer Trust Awards. The awards are sponsored by the Info Security Products Guide. These awards recognise products that offer the highest levels of security to consumers and businesses. Winners were announced during the RSA Security Conference in San Francisco. AVG was one of the rare companies receiving recognition in multiple categories.

AVG Internet Security won the top Security Solution for Consumers. AVG Internet Security for home users delivers comprehensive protection against viruses, spyware, identity theft, and poisoned web pages. It protects against all types of malware that can threaten an individual's personal information.

AVG Internet Security Network Edition won the top Security Solution for Enterprise (Small and SOHO). It provides comprehensive Internet security for a company's workstations, notebooks, and file servers. Small and SOHO companies have limited IT resources. With AVG providing security, they can focus on other business critical activities.

"In an interconnected world, threats have no boundaries, and security has to remain a prime requirement," says Rake Narang, editor-in-chief of Info Security Products Guide. "We are pleased to honour AVG Technologies as a winner in two categories for 2009."

Both products contain AVG LinkScanner technology, delivering users additional protection while they search and surf the internet. AVG LinkScanner was introduced in April as a free product to home users. It works alongside many other consumer internet security solutions and operates in real-time.

"Cyber criminals and cyberthreats are becoming increasingly more sophisticated. Sixty percent of transient threats, for example, come and go in less than a day. Layered solutions that can keep ahead of these threats are essential," stated JR Smith, CEO of AVG Technologies. "We strive to deliver these solutions for both homes and businesses. We are honored to receive this recognition by Info Security Products Guide and our customers for our efforts."

Info Security Products Guide
www.infosecurityproductsguide.com

Info Security Products Guide is a media sponsor of RSA Conference 2009 and Technosium Executive Alliance Forums engaging Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). Info Security Products Guide is a technology research and advisory publication. It plays a vital role in keeping decision makers and end-users informed of the choices they can make when it comes to protecting their digital resources. The Info Security Products Guide awards recognize and honor excellence in all areas of information security.

AVG Launches Free Protection Against Online Threats

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Standalone AVG LinkScanner® delivers real-time protection for Windows users, no matter what other security products they may use

Melbourne, 21 April 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the world's leading free anti-virus software, is today announcing AVG LinkScanner as a free standalone product to protect users against random, invisible online threats.

On any given day, some two million web pages are poisoned by hidden threats. And every day, 60 percent of those threats shut down or move to a different destination on the web - which makes real-time link scanning crucial. Any type of site can be affected, from a small business to a government department to a major brand-name company. If a user simply visits one of these poisoned web pages they don't even need to click on anything to get into real trouble, to lose their credit card details, their ID or other valuable information or files. Regular anti-virus software alone cannot protect against this type of threat.

AVG LinkScanner gives users an additional real-time layer of protection on top of their existing security software. It works by looking at the web page behind a link or a web address typed into a browser and analysing whether it harbours a threat. If it does, then AVG LinkScanner stops the user from downloading that page. This means that, for the first time, Windows XP and Vista users can truly know whether it is safe to click on a link at the only time that matters - when they click on it.

"It's our belief that every computer user has the right to basic security protection, regardless of the ability to pay," said J R Smith, AVG Technologies' CEO. "These dangerous web pages threaten to disrupt the very fabric of the internet as well as how we view and use it, posing an even bigger threat to users than viruses. Our 80 million users are already protected by AVG LinkScanner, which has been an essential part of our suite of security products for some time. So now we're making it available to users of other major security software brands, who just don't have the same degree of protection. Now any PC user can surf and search the web with confidence and without fear of losing their ID, bank account information, credit card details, valuable files and information to cybercrooks."

AVG LinkScanner also applies this targeted analysis of web pages to search results from Google, Yahoo! and MSN. Whenever users search using these search engines, they will see safety rankings for all 'organic' search results. In addition, the AVG LinkScanner will scan users' bookmarks as well as links contained in instant messages and emails before they open them to ensure the links are safe.

The AVG LinkScanner Advantage
AVG LinkScanner's unique ability to analyse web links in real-time enables AVG to deliver far more accurate and relevant protection than other safe-surfing solutions. Checking the safety of a page at the precise time the user is about to click to it is crucial in today's world of transient threats. Relying on information about a web site's relative safety days or weeks in the past cannot protect users against threats that remain in one place for less than 24 hours, and so AVG has rejected the traditional approach of relying on information about sites previously found to have been poisoned.

Unlike other solutions, AVG LinkScanner analyses individual pages on a web site to generate a rating for those pages. Imagine that one or two pages on a vast site like Facebook or MySpace are being used to spread malware. If a safe-surfing solution only rates entire sites based on what it finds on a couple of pages, a bad rating on those one or two poisoned pages would result in blocking users' access to any of their friends' pages on that site.

"The Web has become the primary distribution mechanism for viruses (and other malware), drive-by downloads and other stealthy web threats which represent vast majority of attacks," said AVG Technologies CTO Karel Obluk. "So we've evolved our product range to put greater emphasis on combating this more insidious and dangerous form of attack. AVG LinkScanner is at the front line of this additional protective layer. By making this layer freely available, it's our goal to give users the confidence to always feel safe when they go online."

Neighborhood Watch Research
AVG's 'neighborhood watch' approach to AVG LinkScanner research also increases the product's ability to provide relevant protection to users - putting the protection where users actually go and when they go there, rather than trying to map and secure the entire Internet. The LIVE Intelligence Network has for the past five years focused solely on this area of evolving threats through the combined resources of:

a global team of expert human researchers and a network of 'hunting pots'
an intelligent filter for known and suspected threat distribution sites and mechanisms
automated threat encounter feedback, ensuring focus on real-world threats that affect real users

AVG LinkScanner aggregates intelligence gained through these three channels, correlates it in real time, and integrates it back into the threat analysis process to continually improve user protection.

Other tricks are being developed all the time, and users should not assume they are safe if some other pop-up appears while they're surfing the web or downloading files. Running AVG LinkScanner will protect users against new as well as existing forms of social engineering trickery.

Availability and System Requirements
AVG LinkScanner continues AVG Technologies' mission to deliver lightweight, easy-to-use solutions that don't slow users' computers down and provide robust protection as soon as they're installed. The software is free for use on any personal home computer for non-commercial purposes. It can be downloaded from http://www.avgfree.com.au. Support is available through a free online forum hosted by AVG at http://forums.avg.com.

AVG LinkScanner runs under all current versions of Windows XP and Vista, both 32- and 64-bit. The software is compatible with all major security software and with Internet Explorer 6 or later and Firefox 2 or later browsers. AVG LinkScanner is available today in English and will be available in Bahasa, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese (Traditional & Simplified),Czech, Dutch, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Turkish from mid May.

Keep in touch with AVG
For up-to-the-minute news on the latest cyberthreats:

Subscribe to AVG Chief Research Officer Roger Thompson's blog at http://thompson.blog.avg.com/
For general AVG updates follow AVG on Twitter @officialavgnews

AVG (AU/NZ) on the Conficker/Downadup/Kido Worm

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

1 April 2009 - AVG security solutions protect you from, detect and remove the Conficker/Downadup/Kido worm.

Here at AVG (AU/NZ) we provide free telephone technical support for our customers. So we get to know real soon if something is a big issue. We just haven't had any calls from AVG users infected with the Conficker worm.

The news reports in the media have continued to proliferate. Now they're speculating as to what this new botnet might be used for. 60 Minutes in the USA even did a story on it recently.

The important thing to know is that if your PC's operating system is properly up-to-date, if your utilities (e.g. Acrobat Reader, Flash etc.) are up-to-date, and your AVG Anti-Virus or Internet Security software is properly up-to-date, there is no need to be concerned.

If you haven't run Microsoft or Windows Update recently, please do so now. Update all of your utilities as well. If you're running AVG 7.5 or 8.0, update to AVG 8.5 for free. Also make sure your malware database definitions are up-to-date. Run all of your various update options until they say there are no more updates to install.

The vulnerability in Windows that the Conficker worm takes advantage of was fixed by Microsoft in October 2008. Users of Windows XP, Vista and 7 on the latest service packs should have received and installed this update automatically.

What's fuelled the media hype about Conficker is the high profile and prominence of the organisations that have been successfully infected by Conficker. Various news organisations, hospitals, government departments, navies etc. The reason that these types of organisations have been hit, is that most of them run a locked down standard operating environment (SOE). They simply don't install and circulate updates as frequently as typical home or small business users. Thus these large organisations leave themselves exposed to known exploits for much longer. This time they have paid the price for doing so.

Conficker/Downadup/Kido Worm Infects Over 9 Million PCs

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

30 March 2009 - AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security products protect your Windows PC from all known variants of the recent Conficker/Downadup/Kido worm that has been infecting numerous PCs worldwide. On Windows PCs already infected with the Conficker/Downadup/Kido worm, AVG products also detect and remove all known variants.

The AVG Technologies Labs has been actively tracking the spread of the Conficker/Downadup/Kido worm since the end of November 2008. Unpatched PCs are most at risk, as well as networks with weak or no passwords. This worm, alternativelly known as I-Worm.Generic, is able to spread very quickly because it uses three effective ways to propagate:

Exploits a Windows vulnerability, see MS Security Bulletin MS08-067. The Microsoft patch was released released on 23 October 2008, but it seems there are still a lot of unpatched computers.
Exploiting network shares with weak or no passwords. The worm contains a list of common passwords - a good reason to use strong passwords.
Copies itself to removable media, usually USB sticks. Using the AutoRun function (creates autorun.inf file)

The first versions of Conficker/Downadup/Kido were seen at the end of November / begining of December, 2008. By late January 2009 the AVG Technologies Labs had observed more than 300 different variants. All known variants are detected and healed by AVG products. Besides spreading, the worm can also download other malware and can redirect legitimate URLs access to various other malicious web pages.

How to protect against the Conficker worm:
It is necessary to install the mentioned Windows update and make sure your AVG product is fully up-to-date. Microsoft have also released a special KB article: Microsoft Virus alert about the Win32/Conficker.B worm.

Download the latest AVG update for maximum protection.

In case your computer is infected by Conficker:
If your PC is already infected by the Conficker/Downadup/Kido worm, it may not be possible to update your AVG product correctly. In order to allow correct AVG updates, please proceed as follows:

Open Start -> Run.
Type 'cmd'.
In the opened command line windows type the following command and press Enter:
net stop dnscache
It will be possible to update your AVG product now. Once updated, run an AVG scan to remove the infection:
AVG -> Computer Scanner -> Scan whole computer
When the scan is finished, please restart your computer.

AVG Launches New Protection Against Identity Theft

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

New AVG Identity Protection prevents identity theft and blocks unknown threats

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, 3rd March 2009 - AVG Technologies today has announced a new product, AVG Identity Protection (IDP); plus major upgrades to AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5, AVG Internet Security 8.5, and the entire AVG product range for consumers, small business and enterprises. (See separate releases for AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5 and AVG Internet Security 8.5 with IDP.)

Identity theft is now the number one Internet-based crime, costing computer users more than US$50 billion in the US and UK alone. In Australia the cost of identity theft is estimated to be more than $1.5 billion. To help users protect their personal and private information online, AVG Technologies, developer of the world's leading free computer security product, today introduces AVG Identity Protection (IDP).

AVG Identity Protection gives computer users an additional layer of protection on top of their existing security software. IDP is specifically focused on helping to prevent thieves from using carefully-targeted attacks to steal passwords, bank account details, credit card numbers, and other digital valuables. It uses a technology called behavioural analysis to make sure all the programs running on a user's computer are operating the way they should. If it spots something suspicious that could indicate an attempted ID theft attack, it shuts that activity down, preventing any possible theft from happening. It doesn't matter whether users are running AVG software or security software from another vendor; IDP runs smoothly alongside all popular programs to keep users safer when they're online.

"Computer users need to be confident that, when they're banking and shopping online, they won't become a victim of identity theft," says AVG Technologies CEO J.R. Smith. "Anti-virus alone can't give users the level of security people need in today's complex, fast-moving threat landscape. AVG Identity Protection gives them the confidence that they're safe from the bad guys."

A peek under the hood
AVG Identity Protection is based around the technology AVG acquired when it bought the Sana Security company earlier this year. This technology helps to prevent identity-related attacks by analysing the behaviour and characteristics of malicious programs and using the knowledge gained to create protection that doesn't require "signature updates" to stay current. The software is continuously learning and improving its protection, based on information drawn from real threats encountered by real users, ensuring that users are always protected against new and unknown threats.

"Tens of thousands of new virus samples arrive in security companies' labs every day," says AVG Technologies CTO Karel Obluk. "It is simply not feasible for traditional signature-based anti-virus to keep up with this level of activity from the bad guys. So while it's important to continue to use anti-virus to protect against the known viruses that are out there 'in the wild', it's vital for users to have an additional protective layer against the unknown."

Product availability and pricing
AVG Identity Protection is priced at A$33.99 for a one year, single user licence. This includes free telephone support during Melbourne business hours, backed up by free 24/7 technical support by e-mail.

AVG Identity Protection and the rest of the AVG 8.5 product range is available for purchase and download from www.avg.com.au, plus throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific through a network of more than 2100 independent software resellers.

For more information on the complete range of AVG 8.5 security products for consumers and small businesses, please visit www.avg.com.au.

Follow AVG on http://twitter.com/officialavgnews

AVG Announces AVG Internet Security 8.5 with Identity Protection

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Major upgrade prevents identity theft, plus blocks new and unknown threats.

Melbourne, 3rd March 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd , the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the AVG range of Anti-Virus and Internet Security software, today announced the availability of AVG Internet Security 8.5 with Identity Protection (IDP). This is the latest version of the flagship Internet Security suite from AVG Technologies for home consumers, plus small businesses.

AVG Internet Security 8.5 with IDP delivers a significant number of new benefits to users including enhanced protection against identity theft plus real-time protection against the tens of thousands of new and threats that emerge every day.

The inclusion of AVG Identity Protection in the full suite AVG Internet Security 8.5 product is specifically focused on helping to prevent thieves from using carefully-targeted attacks to steal passwords, bank account details, credit card numbers, and other digital valuables. It uses a technology called behavioural analysis to make sure all the programs running on a user's computer are operating the way they should. If it spots something suspicious that could indicate an attempted ID theft attack, it shuts that activity down, preventing any possible theft from happening.

AVG Internet Security 8.5 with IDP now provides total protection for all aspects of users' online lives, defending home users against viruses, spyware, worms, hackers, botnets, poisoned web pages, trojan horses, spam, identity theft and other cyber threats with a full arsenal of digital weaponry. Whether users are surfing, e-mailing or downloading files, AVG Internet Security 8.5 stops threats from becoming problems.

"We know the security challenges users face in their daily lives," says J.R. Smith, CEO of AVG Technologies. "Our products are designed to prevent those challenges from becoming problems, leaving users free to get on with their digital lives. They're easy to set up, easy to use, easy to find - and some of them are even free, forever."

AVG Identity Protection is based around the technology AVG Technologies acquired when it bought the Sana Security company earlier this year. This technology helps to prevent identity-related attacks by analysing the behaviour and characteristics of malicious programs and using the knowledge gained to create protection that doesn't require "signature updates" to stay current. The software is continuously learning and improving its protection, based on information drawn from real threats encountered by real users, ensuring that users are always protected against new and unknown threats.

AVG LinkScanner, which is also incorporated in AVG Internet Security 8.5, further enhances users' protection against unknown online threats by analysing web pages in real time for hidden threats and exploits such as drive-by downloads. Unlike other safe-surf products which rely on historical data acquired by periodically scanning sites across the Internet based on a variety of criteria, LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf bases its safety ratings on real-time analysis of individual web pages, ensuring an accurate assessment of a page's current status.

Product availability and pricing
AVG Internet Security 8.5 with IDP is priced to protect up to 3 PCs for one year for less than A$100. This includes free telephone support during Melbourne business hours, backed up by free 24/7 technical support by e-mail.

AVG Internet Security 8.5 with IDP is available singly and in multi-license packs for 2, 3, 5 and 10 PCs, with a licence period of 1 or 2 years. AVG 8.5 supports Windows computers running 32-bit and native 64-bit Windows operating systems.

The AVG 8.5 security product range for consumers and small business is available for purchase and download from www.avg.com.au, plus through a network of more than 2100 independent software resellers throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Network versions of AVG 8.5 products are also available, enabling centralised deployment, configuration and reporting, plus remote administration, of all networked PCs across an organisation.

Follow AVG on http://twitter.com/officialavgnews

AVG Announces E-Mail Server Level Anti-Spam Protection

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-spam protection for the most demanding e-mail servers.

Melbourne, 2nd March 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the AVG Technologies range of Anti-Virus and Internet Security software, today announced the availability of the AVG E-mail Server Edition 8.5 and AVG Internet Security SBS Edition 8.5 products. New in these AVG 8.5 products is a central Anti-Spam module, which filters out unwanted e-mails and attempted phishing attacks at the server level.

These products both check all e-mails sent and received, plus e-mail attachments, thus protecting against e-mail-borne threats and the ever increasing amount of e-mail spam attacks.

The products also prevent the opening of infected files on the e-mail server, ensuring that the e-mail server itself is fully protected against viruses and spyware. This prevents suspicious files from being opened, removing the possibility of accidental infections. Infections are automatically quarantined or removed so they can't spread across the network.

AVG E-mail Server Edition 8.5 and AVG Internet Security SBS Edition 8.5 both support the leading e-mail server applications, including MS Exchange. The new server level anti-spam module is based on the best-of-breed Mailshell technology.

Product availability and pricing
AVG E-mail Server Edition 8.5 is available now, starting from A$220 for a one year five mailbox licence. Prices for AVG Internet Security SBS Edition 8.5 starts from A$499 for a one year, five computer plus one server licence. Both products include free telephone support during Melbourne business hours, backed up by free 24/7 technical support by e-mail.

The AVG E-mail Server Edition 8.5 is available for purchase online in multi-licence packs for 5-200 mailboxes. AVG Internet Security SBS Edition 8.5 is available for purchase online in multi-licence packs for 5-200 computer plus one server. These licence options, plus multi-licences packs for 1000's, can be purchased direct from AVG (AU/NZ), or through AVG's network of more than 2100 independent software resellers throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. One or two year subscriptions are available.

Other network versions of AVG 8.5 products are also available, enabling centralised deployment, configuration and reporting, plus remote administration, of all networked PCs across an organisation.

Follow AVG on http://twitter.com/officialavgnews

AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5 Upgrade Includes LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

AVG continues its commitment to providing free basic protection for all PC users

Melbourne, 2nd March 2009 - AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific distributor of the AVG range of Anti-Virus and Internet Security software, today announced the availability of AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5. This latest version of AVG Technologies' popular and widely-used free security software now adds LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf real-time protection to the existing anti-virus, anti-spyware and safe-searching capabilities.

Today's web threats move at lightning speed and only stay around long enough to scoop up their victim quota, so real-time detection is vital. LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf checks the web page behind every link for hidden threats at the only time that matters - when users click on that link.

AVG's LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf further enhances users' protection against unknown threats by analysing web pages in real time for hidden threats and exploits such as drive-by downloads. Unlike other safe-surf products which rely on historical data acquired by periodically scanning sites across the Internet based on a variety of criteria, LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf bases its safety ratings on real-time analysis of individual web pages, ensuring an accurate assessment of a page's current status.

AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5 is intended for personal and non-commercial use on single computers running Windows 2000, XP or Vista. While AVG Technologies and local distributor AVG (AU/NZ) do not provide telephone or e-mail support for AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.0, the company hosts a web site and forum for user-driven support which can be accessed via www.avgfree.com.au. Interested users can download the software from this web site.

Follow AVG on http://twitter.com/officialavgnews

Support the Vinnies Victorian Disaster Appeal - Add a donation button

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 13th February 2009 - In our previous news item we posted a donation button that can be used on your web site to help promote the Australian Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal 2009.

You may also like to promote the St Vincent de Paul Society Victorian Disaster Appeal by putting the donation button below onto different pages of your web site. St Vinnies are contributing significant help and resources to assist the people affected by the fires to rebuild their lives.

To help you to increase secure online donations to the St Vincent de Paul Society Victorian Disaster Appeal via the St Vincent de Paul web site, we've designed the donation button below.

You can add this button to the upper right corner of your own web site pages. Please add the code below, near the bottom of all of your web page code, immediately before the tag:

<script type="text/javascript">

  <!--
  document.write('<div style="position: absolute; left: 100%; top: 0px; overflow: visible; height: 120px; width: 120px; margin: 0 0 0 -120px; padding: 0; z-index: 9999; border: none; float: none;"><img src="http://www.avgfree.com.au/images/vinnies-appeal.gif" width="120" height="120" border="0" usemap="#rc" /></div><map name="rc"><area shape="poly" coords="0,0,120,0,120,120" href="https://www.vinnies.org.au/onlinedonations/index.cfm?state=vic&appeal=63" /></map>');
  // -->
</script>

Please support the Victorian Bushfire Appeal - Add a donation button

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 11th February 2009 - The recent bushfires in Victoria, Australia are already the worst natural disaster ever experienced by Australians.

The past week has seen the destruction of communities, homes and lives with the death toll still growing. Fires are still burning and threatening even more people and properties.

The Victorian State Government and Australian Federal Government, in partnership with the Australian Red Cross, have set up the 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by the devastating bushfires in Victoria.

To help you to promote secure online donations to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal 2009 via the Australian Red Cross web site, we've designed the donation button below.

You can add this button to the upper right corner of your own web site pages. Please add the code below, near the bottom of all of your web page code, immediately before the tag:

<script type="text/javascript">

  <!--


  document.write('<div style="position: absolute; left: 100%; top: 0px; overflow: visible; height: 120px; width: 120px; margin: 0 0 0 -120px; padding: 0; z-index: 9999; border: none; float: none;"><img src="http://www.avgfree.com.au/images/red-cross.gif" width="120" height="120" border="0" usemap="#rc" /></div><map name="rc"><area shape="poly" coords="0,0,120,0,120,120" href="https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations/onlineDonations.asp" /></map>');


  // -->

</script>

Thanks to Brian Alvey for this idea.

Short-lived stealthy attacks are the new web threats

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

New AVG research shows extent of problem, risks of relying on 'traditional' protection

Melbourne, 29th January 2009 - AVG Technologies, a leading developer of Internet security software, has released statistics that paint a scary picture of the way web-borne threats are developing. Unlike viruses, which make a point of being obvious and staying around for as long as they can, the primary characteristics of web infections today are stealth and transience - meaning they are secretive, short-lived, and fast-moving.

Today's online threats frequently appear briefly on an otherwise legitimate site, moving on to other sites before they can be identified and blocked. In other instances, the criminal element behind these threats simply sets up hundreds of seemingly-legitimate web sites with embedded infections, promotes them for a day or two, and then shuts them down, never to be seen again. The rate of appearance of these 'here today, gone tomorrow sites' is increasing - in just the past three months, AVG researchers have seen the average number of unique new infective sites that appear growing from 100,000-200,000 a day to 200,000-300,000 a day, a pattern that looks set to continue.

One example of a transient threat is malicious advertising - known as 'malverts'. Online criminals simply create and submit a 'malvert' to an advertising network, which then unwittingly distributes the malicious advert to hundreds of sites. Computer users clicking on these ads, or even simply exposed to them accidentally, can become infected with data-stealing spyware.

There are plenty of other examples of threats where the user can be infected by simply visiting a web page, without even clicking on a link - so-called 'drive-by downloads' can steal passwords, bank account information, and other valuable personal data without the user being any the wiser. AVG's research indicates that close to 60 percent of sites launching 'drive-by downloads' are infective for one day or less. Figure A below shows the typical length of time these transient infections are 'live'.

Figure A: Number of Days Transient Infections Are Live

This transience means that anyone relying on security software that provides protection using traditional virus 'signatures' or by periodically scanning the millions of sites active on the web at any given time is completely unprotected just when they need that protection most: that crucial time when they click a link to a page poisoned with one of these transient infections.

According to AVG Technologies' CEO J. R. Smith, "The hallmark of today's web-borne infections is 'here today, gone tomorrow'. Any web security product that relies on visiting and scanning websites to deliver a safety rating to its users would have to visit every one of the hundreds of millions of sites on the Internet every day to provide protection against these threats - a technological impossibility even with today's supercomputers. Our recent acquisition of Sana Security's behavioral analysis technology adds yet another layer of protection that will help us to keep users safe from new and unknown threats."

Transient, rapidly-changing information is also a hallmark of social networks like Facebook and MySpace, so it's not surprising that cybercriminals have found fertile territory there. Messages from 'friends' that direct users to malicious pages, which then download infective malware in the background, are all-too-easy for people to mistakenly trust. Then there are links to music or video clips that ask users to download a seemingly-innocent multimedia program - but which carry a hidden threat.

AVG Technologies' Chief Research Officer Roger Thompson notes three key factors that make it particularly difficult for security companies to track and detect these types of threats:

"Firstly, it takes a long time to detect and close down threats distributed randomly across thousands of different pages on a large social networking site. Secondly, the threat is usually short-lived: a malicious program delivered through a popular site doesn't need to run for long to attract a large number of victims. And thirdly, the Internet is so large that scanning every web page for a threat that may only be present for a few hours or days is simply not feasible."

AVG takes a different approach to protecting users against these hidden threats. The company's LinkScanner web security software brings together data from experts and users alike to provide a crucial layer of real-time protection for all AVG's security products.

Thompson believes this layered approach is vital given the nature of today's threats. "If a site contains one bad thing, it might easily contain multiple bad things - and usually does. By bringing together data from multiple sources, we're able to build a very complete picture of individual threats and provide the appropriate protection."

"It's important that users understand traditional anti-virus software, while still an important part of online security, is no longer able to provide protection against every individual virus out there - our labs are seeing tens of thousands of new viruses every day. So what we do is look at the behavior of these threats - which is a much more manageable task because there are far fewer different ways in which the threats are delivered. It's rather like detecting letter bombs - we get enough data from our research to be able to identify a threat (the bomb) by the delivery mechanism (the envelope enclosing the bomb)."

AVG software provides the most timely, precise and reliable protection for Internet users by analyzing web pages at the only time it matters - when the user is about to visit them. AVG offers the industry's only real-time protection against the new generation of web-borne threats to protect users' personal information against unwanted intrusions from cyber criminals.

Did You Know?

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

That a standard AVG licence runs for TWO years. For about the same price as our competitors ONE year licences. That's great value for money.

Of course, you can also choose to have a one year AVG licence. Great choices. Great savings!

AVG Named Finalist for Best SME Security Solution

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

AVG's Internet Security Network Edition Recognised by SC Magazine UK

Melbourne, Australia and AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, 21st January 2009 - AVG Technologies, a global anti-virus and Internet security software provider with over 80 million users in 167 countries, today announced that its Internet Security Network Edition (NE) solution has received the "Recommended" designation in the most recent Anti-malware Group Test performed by security publication SC Magazine. Eight companies participated in the test. AVG Internet Security NE received the highest possible overall rating of five stars.

The reviewer commended AVG for providing feature rich, full protection. He found the product very easy to install, and particularly complimented its centralised management capabilities. In addition to the overall five star rating, AVG Internet Security NE received five stars for features, ease of use, performance, and documentation.

AVG Internet Security NE provides businesses with powerful, easy-to-use protection against the full range of threats. It does this without hogging valuable system resources. The software works efficiently and unobtrusively in the background, around the clock. This enables employees to focus on their work and IT staff to focus on other business critical activities.

AVG Internet Security Network Edition delivers:

Protection against viruses, spyware, adware, rootkits, hackers, phishing and spam
Real time analysis of web pages to prevent drive-by downloads
Company-wide security for workstations, laptops, file servers and SharePoint Portals
Protection against infected file downloads, including over instant messaging channels
Centralised installation, deployment, management and configuration
Small client footprint for low-impact performance
High-speed, automatic updates
Free telephone service and support for Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific delivered from Melbourne, Australia
Free e-mail and online support and service around the clock and across the globe

AVG Internet Security NE currently supports clients in 15 languages, with additional language support in development.

"Receiving SC Magazine's anti-malware "Recommended" award for AVG Internet Security Network Edition is a real honour," said Karel Obluk, CTO of AVG Technologies. "Internet Security Network Edition provides comprehensive protection for business networks that's easy to implement and easy to use. We're proud to provide a full range of defences against 21st-century cyber threats."

The patented LinkScanner® safe search and safe surf technology protects individuals as they surf the web. LinkScanner's unique technology ensures that users are protected against drive-by downloads and other hidden threats at the only time that matters - when they click on the link. While other safe-surf products rely on historical databases, LinkScanner assesses each link in real time. This is a vital attribute in protecting against threats that may be present for only a matter of hours. LinkScanner is integrated into AVG's business and consumer solutions.

To learn more about AVG's solutions for business, go to http://www.avg.com.au/business-security/

SC Magazine's (US) Anti-malware Group Test appears in the January 2009 print edition and can be found online at http://www.scmagazineus.com/Group-Test-Anti-malware/GroupTest/156/

AVG Technologies Announces Acquisition of Sana Security

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Online Identity Protection Products and Intellectual Property Extensions Strengthen AVG's Suite of Security Software Solutions, Marks AVG's Entrance into Silicon Valley

MELBOURNE and AMSTERDAM, 13 January 2009 - AVG Technologies, a global Anti-Virus and Internet Security software provider with over 80 million users in 167 countries, today announced the acquisition of Sana Security, a leading developer in identity theft prevention software. Sana's forward-looking technology in the industry comes from its behaviour-based security software that proactively protects against threats in a similar way to the human immune system.

The transaction marks another successful milestone as AVG continues its corporate growth strategy to continually improve Internet security coverage for individuals and small businesses and expand its global footprint. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Sana also provides AVG with its first offices in Silicon Valley.

As the threat landscape evolves with more sophisticated online attacks to steal personal information, Sana's technology complements AVG's existing portfolio by delivering continuous threat detection and automatic removal of malicious software proactively. Tens of thousands of new computer threats - including increasingly complex bots, rootkits, spyware, and Trojan horses - are released every day; Sana's technology helps computer users to simplify and streamline protection against identity theft.

"AVG's acquisition of Sana is one of the most exciting accomplishments in identity theft prevention. Sana's unique behavioural software, combined with AVG's existing security technology, will provide the most comprehensive online identity protection in the industry, delivering continuous real-time protection. At the same time, AVG will continue to maintain low PC resource utilisation for optimal system performance, a critical requirement both for the individual at home and for the business user," said J.R. Smith, CEO of AVG Technologies.

Sana Security's personnel, together with its research organisation Sana Labs, will be integrated into the AVG organisation and maintain offices in Silicon Valley.

Sana's products use advanced behavioural technology to protect users' personal information - including logins, passwords and account information - and other critical data stored on the computer. By mimicking the approach used by the human immune system to repel attackers, the software prevents hackers from capturing and transmitting sensitive information away from the user's machine, compromising their online security.

Sana's technology "learns" normal application behaviour by observing the way those applications interact with each other (their "code paths"). Vulnerabilities in the form of software bugs, user configuration errors, malware infections, and other forms of attack force applications down unexpected code paths. The behavioural technology recognises this misdirection and eliminates the threats before they can affect the user's data.

AVG 8.0 Protects Against Dangerous Internet Explorer Vulnerability

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

AVG's LinkScanner Technology Keeps Users Safe as Microsoft Determines How and When to Fix Flaw

Amsterdam, 16 December 2008 — Security software from AVG effectively blocks attempts by cyber criminals seeking to capitalise on the recently discovered vulnerability in Microsoft's Internet Explorer web browser. The vulnerability enables unauthorised third parties to take control of users' PCs by tricking them into visiting poisoned web pages.

AVG, the global anti-virus and Internet security software provider with over 80 million users in 167 countries, today assured computer users that its commercial AVG 8.0 security software products have provided protection against this vulnerability since 11th December 2008. AVG estimates that its software has already blocked close to 5,000 attacks against 3,000 users since Microsoft announced the flaw.

Computer users can immediately safeguard their systems by downloading a trial version of AVG software at www.avg.com.au.

"Today, the fastest growing dangers on the Internet are fast-moving, transient threats that appear on one or more web sites temporarily, from a few weeks to just a few seconds," noted J.R. Smith, CEO of AVG Technologies. "Because they're so fleeting, these threats are easily missed by typical built-in browser security measures, and require the real-time detection capabilities of technology like LinkScanner, which tracks the spread of specifically these types of threat and blocks them before they can endanger users' valuable information."

According to Roger Thompson, AVG's Chief Research Officer and original developer of the LinkScanner technology, the likely perpetrators of this particular IE vulnerability exploit are the same people who have been stealing World of Warcraft passwords from users for the past couple of years.

AVG software provides the most timely, precise and reliable safe searching and surfing protection by analysing web pages at the only time it matters - when the user is about to visit them. AVG offers the security software industry's only real-time web exploit detection and prevention, using proprietary behavioral analysis and other breakthrough technologies to protect personal information and defend against unwanted intrusions while users are on the web.

AVG to 'Slam the Online Holiday Scam' with Detection of Bogus E-Greeting Messages

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Launches Coalition Campaign to Fight Holiday Hackers and Cyber Attackers with Safe Surfing Tool That Alerts Users to Fake, Fraudulent, or Virally Infected Web Sites

Amsterdam, 9 December 2008 - AVG Technologies, a global anti-virus and Internet security software provider with over 85 million users in 167 countries, today announced the launch of a public-education campaign designed to alert consumers to the dangers of sending or receiving e-greeting cards loaded with devastating computer viruses and malware. The campaign also provides free AVG software to consumers, arming them with complete online protection throughout the holiday season.

The campaign, entitled "Slam the Online Holiday Scam", (www.slamtheonlinescam.com) will educate consumers and small businesses on ways to combat the growing number of cyber-threats posed by hackers who spread viruses disguised as e-greeting cards, e-gift cards and online holiday messages. At the same time, the free software gives Internet users confidence to "click without the threat of a trick" and to send legitimate e-cards to family and friends over the holiday season.

An estimated 500 million e-cards are sent worldwide each year, with the most popular holidays being Christmas, Thanksgiving, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Father's Day. Cyber criminals aiming to spread viruses and other vicious malware are exploiting the increasing popularity of e-cards with links that take unsuspecting recipients to bogus web sites that can infest systems or compromise user identities and personal data.

The growing threat to consumers has prompted law-enforcement agencies such as the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation to issue formal alerts around holiday time. For example, the FBI last year warned consumers about expected attacks by hackers sending the "Storm Worm" virus disguised as Valentine e-cards.

"More than ever before, the general public must be on high alert for new e-card threats and online holiday scams, which are increasing both in number and severity," noted J.R. Smith, CEO of AVG. "This campaign is designed to empower computer users. It will give them the tools, tips and techniques to be 'self-secure' and help them protect their friends and family against vicious computer attacks."

"Slam the Online Holiday Scam" will be a multi-faceted program supported by a multi-organisation coalition to educate the public on cyber threats. AVG is working to team with law-enforcement and consumer protection agencies, and a wide variety of organisations are expected to participate. Target groups include the National Crime Prevention Council, the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, CyberStreetSmart.org, i-Safe, the National Cyber Security Alliance, the National Consumers League, and Consumers Union.

The coalition partners will promote the program, as well as AVG's 90-day free use of its Internet Security product over the holiday season. The AVG software suite includes LinkScanner technology, which gives real-time protection against malicious sites. LinkScanner is an important weapon against deceitful e-cards as potential victims are stopped from clicking on bad links that contain stealthy, drive-by downloads.

Mr. Smith added, "Over 3.5 million of AVG's customers have come together to form one of the largest 'self-help' online communities on the Internet — a community that actively exchanges ideas and whose members support each other with advice and troubleshooting. It is our hope that the 'Slam the Online Holiday Scam' campaign will effectively create a new community of computer users who are united against the specific threats posed by fraudulent e-greeting and e-gift cards."

AVG Named as One of the Best

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

AVG's Security Software Recognised as One of the Best by Community of 500,000 Small Business IT Pros

Amsterdam, 4th December 2008 - AVG Technologies today announced that its anti-virus software was voted a winner of in the 2008 Spicies Awards - a competition in which 500,000 IT small business professionals vote on their favourite technology products and services. Award winners were selected based on the most popular products within the Spiceworks community - one of the largest groups of small business technology professionals in the world. Spiceworks users voted on the best-of-the-best, and winners were announced at the inaugural SpiceWorld 2008 conference.

AVG's small business anti-virus software won its category by a landslide, with the number of votes cast almost double that of the runner up, according to Spiceworks.

"The winners of the Spicies Awards represent the 'peoples' choice' of small business IT products and services," said Scott Abel, CEO of Spiceworks. "We congratulate them for their success in introducing new tools, services and platforms that are driving the next phase of innovation and creating real value for small businesses around the world."

The Spicies Awards finalists were selected from hundreds of top products and services used within by members of the Spiceworks network. Winners were chosen by the community of more than 500,000 Spiceworks small business IT professionals in 194 countries around the world. A full list of the winners can be found at http://community.spiceworks.com/group/show/299.

"AVG is honored to have been recognised with this award by the Spiceworks small business user community," said Siobhan MacDermott, Head of Global Communications and Investor Relations, AVG. "It is extremely gratifying that our products have been cited as 'best in class' in their the anti-virus category. And we are committed to continually upgrading and enhancing our software solutions to meet customers' ever-changing needs and requirements."

About Spiceworks
Founded by network and systems management software pioneers, Spiceworks develops the first free collaborative IT management application that incorporates crowdsourcing to help over 500,000 small businesses simplify everything IT. Spiceworks makes it easy for IT pros to manage their networks, collaborate to solve technology problems, and find the best practices, products and services they need day-to-day. Spiceworks is a privately held company headquartered in Austin, Texas with funding from Austin Ventures and Shasta Ventures. For more information visit www.spiceworks.com

AVG Wins Another Virus Bulletin Award

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 26 September 2008 — In the latest October 2008 Virus Bulletin comparative reviews, AVG received another prestigious VB100 award.

Avira AntiVir, CA eTrust, F-Secure Anti-Virus and Kaspersky Anti-Virus were amongst those that missed out on the VB100 award this time. The main reason for products failing was the generation of false positives.

AVG Responds to and Resolves LinkScanner Issues

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Czech Republic, 5 July 2008 — AVG has recently been made aware of the increased web traffic that the new Search-Shield component of our AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.0 product is causing in an attempt to notify users about infected web sites. We have actively listened to the web masters who have brought this to our attention, and as a company we have reacted quickly to solve them.

In working with the web master community, AVG has responded immediately and on Tuesday, 8th July 2008, AVG will issue a product modification to address the spikes that a few individuals have seen with their web traffic.

We have modified the Search-Shield component of the product to only notify users of malicious sites. Search-Shield no longer scans each search result online for new exploits, which was causing the spikes that web masters addressed with us. However, it is important to note that AVG still offers full protection against potential exploits through the Active Surf-Shield component of our product, which checks every page for malicious content as it is visited, but before it is opened.

We’d like to thank our web community for bringing these challenges to our attention, as building community trust and protecting all of our users is critical to us.

AVG’s primary concern is protecting our customers. In order to do this, we have actively provided our customers with cutting edge technology. There are 20,000 to 30,000 unique pieces of malware being submitted to anti-virus labs around the world each day, and the vast majority of these will be delivered via web based exploit and social engineering tricks from hacked and rogue websites.

Nearly all of these pieces of malware are designed to steal financial and personal information from victims. In order to protect our customers, and the world in general, we released technology in our free product that is designed to discover and block these sites. As a result of this, we included real-time, dynamic scanning in our free product that we recently released to customers.

Because of the unique nature of our technology — we scan web links before our customers open them to ensure they are safe — we anticipated that we would see a spike in the number of sites that were analysed, however, we underestimated the popularity of our product and the resulting number of verdicts that came back to us. As a result, we did not anticipate seeing the volumes we have seen in two months for another 24-36 months.

Today we are rendering over 1 billion verdicts per week that result in the identification of 1 infected URL per 43 searches which equates to rendering a red verdict to 1 in every nine 9 users. While this has affected web traffic analysis and marketing analytics on a handful of sites, we are dedicated to protecting our users with the best technology on the market today while at the same time not being disruptive.

UPDATE: 5 July 2008 — AVG Technologies has released an update to AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.0, build 138, to resolve the LinkScanner Search-Shield issue.

The file name you require is:
avg_free_stf_en_8_138a1332.exe (or later)

If users don't want to wait for the update process to roll-out to their PC, or they're doing a new installation, then the up-to-date version is now available for them to download at www.avgfree.com.au.

UPDATE: 8 July 2008 — AVG Technologies has released an update to the AVG 8.0 commercial product range, build 138, to resolve the LinkScanner Search-Shield issue.

AVG was recently made aware of the increased web traffic that the new safe search LinkScanner Search-Shield component of our AVG 8.0 products was causing as it worked to notify users about infected web sites.

We have modified the LinkScanner Search-Shield component to only notify users of poisoned web sites by marking known bad sites only. LinkScanner Search-Shield no longer scans each search result online for new poisoned web sites. This will minimise the web traffic when searching using Google, Yahoo! and MSN Live Search.

Users of AVG 8.0 commercial products can wait for the automatic update process to roll-out to their PC, or click on the "Update now" tab in the AVG program interface to force the update to happen immediately.

Users doing a new installation can download the up-to-date program files at AVG Software Downloads.

When updated and/or installed correctly, the program will report that it is on AVG version 8.0.138, or later.

The safe surf LinkScanner Surf-Shield component of commercial AVG 8.0 products still provides full real-time protection against malicious web exploits being delivered from compromised web sites. LinkScanner Surf-Shield checks every web page clicked on for malicious content as they are visited.

AVG Technologies attains Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Status

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Leading Internet security vendor completes process in record time

Czech Republic, 26 June 2008 — AVG Technologies, a leading provider of Internet security software, today announced it has attained Gold Certified status in the Microsoft Partner Program with a competency in ISV/Software Solutions. To qualify as a Gold Certified partner, the company demonstrated expertise with Microsoft technologies and a proven ability to meet customers' needs using that technology. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners receive a rich set of benefits, including access, training and support, enabling them to provide optimum service and support to their customers.

AVG Technologies offers a range of Internet security products for home users and small to medium sized businesses (SMB). Home users can choose AVG Anti-Virus, AVG Anti-Virus plus Firewall, or AVG Internet Security, while business users can select networked versions of the Anti-Virus and Internet Security products as well as file- and email-server based Anti-Virus. In addition, AVG Technologies provides free basic protection against viruses, spyware, and web threats delivered through search results pages, to individuals with AVG Free.

"We are extremely pleased to have achieved Gold Certified status in the Microsoft Partner Program," says AVG Technologies CEO J. R. Smith. "It clearly shows our customers and business partners the high degree of expertise our people have in the use and support of Microsoft tools and platforms. Everyone gains from this recognition."

As one of the requirements for attaining Gold Certified Status, AVG Technologies had to declare a Microsoft Competency. Microsoft Competencies are designed to help differentiate a partner's capabilities with specific Microsoft technologies to customers looking for a particular type of solution. Each competency has a unique set of requirements and benefits, formulated to accurately represent the specific skills and services that partners bring to the technology industry.

The Microsoft ISV/Software Solutions Competency recognizes the skill and focus partners bring to a particular solution set. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners that have obtained this competency have a successful record of developing and marketing packed software based on Microsoft technologies.

AVG Technologies recently announced that the AVG Free basic security product has achieved a key milestone of five million downloads in a single week at CNet download.com (download.cnet.com). AVG Free was downloaded more than five million times during the last week of May 2008. The total number of downloads through download.com since the launch of AVG Free 8.0 in April 2008 and today is approaching 25 million.

Australia Tops Global Cyber Crime Impact Survey

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

New AVG Study Reveals Auction Scams and Fraudulent Emails Are Most Common Forms of Cyber Crime Experienced by Australians

Melbourne, 10 June 2008 — Australia has the highest incidence of cyber crime in the world, according to a global survey of nine countries by leading software security vendor, AVG.

The study, which canvassed 1,000 users each in Australia, the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Brazil and the Czech Republic, found that over 39 per cent of Australians had been the victim of cyber crime compared to 32 per cent in Italy, 28 per cent of Americans and just 14 per cent in Sweden and Spain.

The most common forms of cyber theft experienced by Australians were:

not receiving goods paid for at an online auction (16 per cent);
fraudulent emails that resulted in financial damage (14 per cent);
phishing (10 per cent);
not receiving goods ordered online (eight per cent);
credit card fraud (five per cent); and
unauthorised bank transfers (three per cent).

Marketing Manager of AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, Lloyd Borrett, said the fact that Australia experienced more cyber crime was a little surprising, although it might have been impacted by the fact that Australians are more active online users than most other nations.

"The study showed that 99.5 per cent of home PCs are connected to the Internet, and that Australians score higher than most when it comes to leveraging the Internet for shopping, banking, paying bills and booking tickets."

"While we don't know whether Australians are actually targeted more heavily than other countries, these results highlight the importance of comprehensive security solutions to protect users from obvious threats like phishing and email scams, as well as good education to warn people of the danger," Borrett said.

He welcomed last week's (Friday 6 June) announcement by the Federal Government of a free Internet service and website designed to alert users to cyber threats, saying the new Stay Smart Online service would help to reinforce existing messages about the need for Internet security.

The AVG survey found that Australians had relatively high awareness of Internet security and demonstrated the second highest level of confidence (70.5 per cent after the USA's 73.3 per cent) in the protection provided by their software security vendor.

Forty-seven per cent of Australians said they were more likely to experience cyber crime than to experience burglary, assault or robbery. Thirty-seven cent of all Australians surveyed said that cyber crime was a strong concern, while 53 per cent said it was of slight concern to them.

Gender Issues

The survey suggested that Australian women might be slightly more trusting than their male counterparts when it comes to cyber crime.

Women experienced a higher incidence of being negatively impacted financially by fraudulent emails, (14.7 per cent compared to 13.7 per cent of men), credit card fraud (6.1 per cent compared to 5.0 per cent) and theft of bank details (3.2 per cent compared to 1.9 per cent).

Men were slightly more affected by phishing (9.9 per cent compared to 8.5 per cent of women) and not receiving goods ordered online via eBay or other vehicles (24.4 per cent compared to 22.5 per cent).

The study also highlighted cultural differences between the different countries, with Australians and Americans more likely to feel angry, violated and upset on experiencing cyber crime, while the strongest reaction in Spain was insecurity.

AVG Performs Well for Channel

When respondents were asked to name popular brands of anti-virus software without being prompted, AVG enjoyed the second highest level of brand recognition. Australians also demonstrated strong awareness of the need to keep their security software up to date, with 77 per cent listing Notification of Upgrades as their top criteria when choosing a software security vendor, followed by Online Support (73 per cent) and Information emails about what to look out for (66 per cent).

AVG (AU/NZ) Named in Top 50 of BRW Fast Starters 2008

Tue, 27 May 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Melbourne, 28 May 2008 — The remarkable success of the award-winning AVG family of Internet security products has catapulted its Australasian distributor, AVG (AU/NZ)AVG, into the Top 50 of the BRW Fast Starters List 2008.

AVG has been listed as the 13th fastest growing company in Australia in BRW's 2008 Fast Starters listing, and 48th fastest in terms of revenue.

Managing Director of AVG (AU/NZ), Peter Cameron, said this is a fantastic achievement for the Melbourne-based company and testament to the dedication of the local staff and their focus on providing exceptional customer service. Cameron also outlined the quality and performance of the AVG solutions is also a major contributing factor.

"This result is a combination of our successful promotion and branding of the AVG products in Australia and New Zealand, growing consumer acceptance of the need for Internet security protection, and AVG's demonstrated commitment to delivering the most comprehensive security on the market for a growing array of Internet threats."

He said the recent launch of AVG Internet Security 8.0 has been warmly welcomed by small business and home office users, many of whom have taken the opportunity to upgrade from the anti-virus product to more full-featured, full-suite protection.

"Our revenues have increased 33 per cent year on year and a substantial expansion in our reseller numbers in recent months is driving additional organic growth. We're delighted to have achieved such a significant milestone in our business and look forward to building on this performance in the years to come," he said.

AVG 8.0 showcased to capacity crowd at CeBIT Australia 2008

Sun, 25 May 2008 14:00:00 GMT

AVG Anti-Virus and Internet Security exhibit highlighted the first-in-class LinkScanner real-time safe surf and search protection

Melbourne, 26 May 2008 — AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the Australasian distributor of the AVG range of Anti-Virus and Internet Security software, showcased the latest version of the award-winning AVG product range to a capacity crowd at CeBIT Australia 2008 last week.

The AVG 8.0 product range was officially released at the end of February and its live demonstration at CeBIT outlined how home, SMB and enterprise users have access to an extensive range of new and improved protection capabilities, including real-time protection against web threats and drive-by downloads.

AVG 8.0 is designed to protect users against current and future threats without impacting system performance, a task made significantly easier by the inclusion of the LinkScanner real-time safe surf and search protection technology.

"The new AVG Active Surf-Shield and Search-Shield components of the LinkScanner technology built into the AVG 8.0 product range, proved particularly interesting for show visitors," said Lloyd Borrett, Marketing Manager of AVG (AU/NZ). "Knowing the web page they are about to visit is safe is very appealing to people."

A record-breaking CeBIT crowd were impressed by the pro-active, real-time ability of AVG's safe surf and search protection. "Once people are shown how LinkScanner checks each link on a Google, Yahoo or MSN search engine results page in real-time, they quickly realise that the blacklist-based solutions offered by our competitors are totally inadequate," added Borrett. "It's easy to understand that a blacklist database will never be accurate and up-to-date at the time it really matters — when you click on a link to a web page. People are seeing how AVG is now the world leader in delivering protection against web threats."

Many of the queries for AVG (AU/NZ) at CeBIT this year related to AVG's range of solutions for business and enterprise networks. Network administrators, IT Managers and security solution resellers were keen to roll-out AVG's cost-effective and efficient workstation protection across networks from 10 to thousands of users. The new AVG 8.0 network security solutions provide improved file server and e-mail server protection, plus sophisticated central management, remote administration and reporting tools.

"The message we received at CeBIT was that business is tiring of paying for excessive, inefficient and expensive solutions that get in the way of their day-to-day operations," Borrett pointed out. "They understand the value proposition that AVG delivers and are asking us to help them transition to a better solution for their business."

For Borrett CeBIT 2008 was compelling proof that a very large number of both consumer and business users were extremely dissatisfied with the solutions they currently had. "Australians are very discerning when it comes to protecting the security of their information. People explained how unhappy they are with the way certain solutions now constantly get in their way, plus how they were no longer committed to constantly pay for upgrades and renewals. They seemed very impressed with the price of AVG's world-leading solutions which includes a two year licence and all upgrades for the licence period."

Borrett added, "Most of our customers are buying the AVG Internet Security 8.0 full suite solution rather than entry-level protection. Plus thousands are also switching from the AVG Free Edition product straight to our full suite solution. This is a great testament to the continuing growth of AVG (AU/NZ)."

AVG products now protect more than 70 million computer users around the world. Download provider CNET reports that AVG is one of the top 20 most downloaded programs of all time. Such is the market growth of AVG in the region, that AVG (AU/NZ) moved into the top 50 of the BRW Fast Starters List 2008 based on revenue and is positioned in the top 20 in terms of growth.

AVG receives PC Answers Recommended Award

Sun, 11 May 2008 14:00:00 GMT

2 May 2008 - AVG Internet Security 8.0 has received a Recommended award from UK magazine PC Answers. The review highlighted AVG's excellent threat detection, the high quality of the anti-spam module, lightning fast rootkit scanning, and the suite's robust firewall.

What particularly impressed PC Answers was the ease of use of the software, including AVG 8.0 Internet Security's new interface — giving it the full 5 marks out of 5.

Also very popular was the new and innovative Linkscanner technology, which PC Answers described as "perhaps the coolest addition" and "a step in the right direction" within online security.

Leading Internet security vendor Grisoft changes name to AVG Technologies

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Global change designed to enhance AVG brand awareness

Sydney, 7 February 2008 — Grisoft, developer of the AVG family of security software products, today announced that it is changing its name to AVG Technologies. The renaming affects all subsidiaries around the globe:

The parent company is now AVG Technologies N.V.
The Czech Republic-based company is now AVG Technologies CZ, s.r.o.
The US-based company is now AVG Technologies USA, Inc.
The Cyprus-based company is now AVG Technologies CY, Ltd
The UK-based company, already operating under the AVG name, will now be known as AVG Technologies UK Ltd.

All other contact and commercial data remains unchanged, including current Grisoft trademarks.

In October 2007, the Australia and New Zealand distributor, Avalanche Technology Group, set up a separate business called AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd to manage and distribute the AVG range of Internet security products. Peter Cameron, Managing Director of AVG (AU/NZ) said there were no immediate plans to amend the company name to AVG Technologies AU/NZ Pty Ltd.

"The change in name is primarily intended to enhance awareness of the AVG brand around the world," said J.R. Smith, Chief Executive Officer of AVG Technologies. "By aligning our corporate identity with our brand identity, we expect to significantly increase the effectiveness of our marketing activities and other communications."

The AVG brand is widely recognised in the anti-virus and Internet security marketplace. A recent poll undertaken in the United States found that AVG was the third most widely recognised anti-virus brand after Norton/Symantec and McAfee. AVG is one of the 20 most-downloaded programs at CNet's download.com site. Over the past several months, the AVG domains in multiple international markets (including Australia and New Zealand) have been acquired to ensure a smooth transition to the new corporate identity.

AVG Research Team Looks Back at 2007's Top Malware Threats

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Forecasts Social Networking Sites will be Dominant Targets for Cybercriminals

Sydney and Brno, 9 January 2008 — Security experts at Grisoft, developer of the AVG family of security software products, today published their analysis of 2007's top viruses, Internet hacks and exploits, and revealed their forecast for the top security threats facing computer users in 2008.

According to the team, viruses made up some 15 percent of the threat landscape in 2007, consistent with the company's predictions at the end of 2006. Phishing scams, backdoor worms, Trojans, keyloggers, spyware, adware and other web-based exploits comprised the majority of threats.

Top Ten Viruses for 2007
According to AVG global security strategist Larry Bridwell, the 10 viruses exhibiting the most staying power in 2007 were:
1. W32/Detnat
2. W32/Netsky
3. W32/Mytob
4. W32/Bagle
5. W32/MyWife
6. W32/Virut
7. W32/Zafi
8. W32/MyDoom
9. W32/Lovegate
10. W32/Bagz

"The anti-virus industry has been in a transition period for the past two to three years as malware has morphed from simple viruses to complex malicious website hacks that combine exploits and social engineering to scam unsuspecting users of their data," said Bridwell. "As 2008 ushers in new security issues and challenges, Internet users need to boost their anti-malware defences with safe surfing tools like AVG LinkScanner that detect and stop web exploits in real time."

Unlike traditional malware such as viruses or Trojans that are created by thrill-seeking programmers and computer geeks trying to create chaos, exploits are a fast-growing category of crimeware applications used by criminal cyber-gangs to steal digital assets for financial gain. Exploits are usually delivered in the form of drive-by downloads intended to take advantage of unpatched computer vulnerabilities.

"2007 was the year that cybercriminals began to seriously employ exploits and social engineering attacks to undermine the trusted web," adds Grisoft chief technology officer Karel Obluk. "This year we expect the bad guys to leverage the knowledge gained to wage larger scale attacks using a wide range of malware tools. The real danger is that these attacks will begin to impact the growth of search engine and social networking use."

Top Ten Web Exploits for 2007
Drawing on research gained through its recent acquisition of Exploit Prevention Labs, AVG identified the following as the top ten web exploits of 2007:
1. Super Bowl/Dolphins website drive-by download hack (February)
2. Google AdWords reroute via malicious site (April)
3. Google Bait and Switch keyword site exploit servers (July)
4. Bank of India website drive-by download hack (August)
5. Storm Trojan Fakes YouTube Links through phishing and fake codecs (August)
6. .Gov Hacks cause government websites to serve porn, malware, and fake anti-spyware (September)
7. Facebook Banner Ads used to distribute adware-driven exploits (September)
8. Alicia Keys/MySpace Hack deliver behind-the-scenes drive-by exploits (November)
9. MLB and NHL.com malicious banner ads hijack user sessions, push malware (November)
10. Monster.com hack feeds exploits to jobseekers (November)

"From the attacks on Facebook and the Major League Baseball Web site to the Alicia Keys' sites, it's clear over the past year that incidence of online threats is accelerating," said Roger Thompson, chief research officer at Grisoft "In 2008, Internet users are likely to see more sophisticated attacks as organised cybercriminals step up their efforts to steal digital assets from social networking site users. Social networks are particularly vulnerable because they rely heavily on hyperlinked content, information sharing and the trust of their participants."

Top Security Threats Expected in 2008
Thompson's team has identified five major areas of continued or increased risk for Internet users in the coming year:

1. Web exploits and web-based social engineering attacks. "Viruses will continue to be a threat, but we'll also see an explosion of exploits through social engineering and Web 2.0 attacks in 2008," said Thompson.

2. Storm Worm on the rise. "Storm is here to stay," said Obluk. "We're seeing pieces of Storm sold off to the bad guys and we expect orchestrated attacks across multiple platforms."

3. Email-propagated viruses. Many novice users remain unaware of email security issues and continue to open attachments from senders they do not know or click on unsafe hyperlinks.

4. Web exploits targeting trusted web sites. "Today's cybercriminals tend to go for the low-hanging fruit," said Thompson. "If they can infiltrate a popular site, they will reap their rewards quickly and be gone in no time."

5. An increase in the number of Windows Vista attacks. With increasing adoption of Microsoft's latest operating system, Vista will become a bigger and thus a more tempting target for the bad guys.

While AVG expects international law makers to pay closer attention to cybercrime in 2008, it's unlikely that stronger laws will deter cybercriminals. "The international laws against drug trafficking have not significantly dented the traffickers' incomes," said Obluk. "So there's little reason for us to believe that laws against criminal behaviour in cyberspace will have much impact on online fraud. There is simply too much money to be made."

AVG acquires Exploit Prevention Labs - LinkScanner Safe Surfing Technology

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 13:00:00 GMT

LinkScanner technology will protect 60+ million users of AVG security products against malicious web sites and drive-by downloads.

Sydney, 5 December 2007 — Grisoft, developer of the AVG family of security software products, today announced the acquisition of Exploit Prevention Labs, a pioneering developer of safe surfing technology that protects Internet users against malicious web sites and drive-by downloaded exploits. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. The deal is expected to be finalised by December 31st 2007, at which time Grisoft will also formally change the company name to AVG in reflection of the brand’s global standing.

“Unsafe hyperlinks and the poisoning of legitimate websites represent one of the biggest threats facing computer users since the advent of viruses,” said J.R. Smith, CEO of Grisoft. “The research and technology behind Exploit Prevention Labs’ LinkScanner product family will enable us to provide our 60-plus million users with access to the most complete protection against internet security threats. Our combined operations will give us the dual advantages of fast reaction and deep research capabilities over other vendors attempting to address this space.”

The acquisition will allow Grisoft to leapfrog the safe surfing initiatives of other anti-virus vendors, who have focused on database-driven approaches that are incompatible with the dynamic, elusive nature of these threats. Exploit Prevention Labs' experience has shown that real-time analysis is the most reliable method of protecting users against fast-moving Web 2.0-style attacks by cybercriminals.

“Web exploits are a dynamic problem that requires a real-time solution,” said Roger Thompson*, Australian expatriate co-founder and CTO of Exploit Prevention Labs. “In today’s Web 2.0 world of user-generated content and hyperlinked-everything, a web page can be safe one minute and dangerous the next. LinkScanner technology provides definitive real-time threat protection at the time that matters most - when the user clicks the link.”

The need for real-time solutions and fast reaction times has been particularly clearly demonstrated over the past few weeks with the exploiting of Alicia Keys’ and other musicians’ MySpace pages and the infective banner ads that appeared on the Australian online White Pages and BigPond sites.

Grisoft is World’s Fourth Largest Anti-Virus Vendor
Grisoft has grown rapidly over the last few years to become the world’s fourth largest vendor of anti-virus software measured by installed user base. Much of the company’s growth can be attributed to the frustration of Internet users with the traditional “big three” anti-virus products, which they view has having become bloated, slow and resource-intensive. The high-performance AVG product range, by contrast, is optimised to provide superior anti-malware protection while minimising the impact on a computer’s performance. Like the AVG products, the LinkScanner family is extremely lightweight in terms of system resource usage.

“Since our initial investment in 2005, Intel Capital has provided technical assistance and introduced customers to Grisoft,” said Marcin Hejka, investment director for Eastern Europe. “We are pleased to see their continuing success as an Internet security leader and congratulate the company on this acquisition.”

Corporate Integration Plans
Most of Exploit Prevention Labs’ 18 employees - including key executives Roger Thompson, Greg Mosher and Chris Weltzien - will join Grisoft. Roger Thompson becomes Chief Research Officer (CRO), Greg Mosher becomes VP of Engineering, and Chris Weltzien becomes VP of Business Development.

Short-term product integration plans include adding LinkScanner technology to AVG Anti-Virus Free and offering LinkScanner Online, a free on-demand URL scanning service, directly from the AVG web site. Grisoft also expects to maintain LinkScanner Pro, Exploit Prevention Labs’ flagship product, as a standalone offering.

Grisoft and Exploit Prevention Labs will combine their threat research operations, providing research centers on three continents (North America, Australia, and Europe) offering AVG users the benefit of around-the-clock malware research 365 days a year.

Understanding the Exploit Threat
Exploits are the digital equivalent of letter bombs - they are packages of drive-by-downloaded software code that contain any number of different types of malware such as rootkits and password-stealing keyloggers.

Cybercriminals create or acquire and distribute these exploits to steal users’ digital assets such as bank account log-ins, credit card numbers, brokerage account information and social security numbers. Unlike traditional virus writers who write malcode for thrills and bragging rights, the cybercriminals behind exploits are out to make a profit.

Internet users become infected by exploits simply by visiting poisoned web pages, including trusted and legitimate web sites that have been hacked by cybercriminals. Exploits are silent - the user often has no clue their computer has been infected; often, the first sign of infection is when the victim notices mysterious activity in financial accounts.

These threats are termed exploits because they exploit vulnerabilities in software products – most commonly operating systems and browsers, but increasingly also affecting media applications like QuickTime and utilities like WinZip. Microsoft’s “patch Tuesday” monthly security updates are now routinely followed by “exploit Wednesdays”, underscoring the need for agility by security vendors to effectively protect users.

To learn more about exploits, visit the Exploit Prevention Labs Threat Center at http://www.explabs.com/ss/threatcenter.asp

*Roger Thompson, CTO, Exploit Prevention Labs Roger Thompson's computing career began as a mainframe engineer in Australia in 1972. In 1979, he started a business in Australia, to develop software for the then-emerging microcomputer industry. In 1987, he co-founded the first Australian anti-virus company, Leprechaun Software, and launched Virus Buster. After moving to the United States, Roger started Thompson Network Software, which developed The Doctor range of products; the company was sold to On Technology. He was most recently Director of Malicious Content Research at Computer Associates.

AVG highly commended in PC Authority Best Software awards

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 13:00:00 GMT

AVG recently attended the Australian PC Authority Magazine Reliability and Service Awards for 2007 and were finalists in the 'Best Software' category. AVG scored 'Highly Commended' for their AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition and scored the 2nd highest rating for user satisfaction.

AVG (AU/NZ) Expands Executive Team with New Marketing Manager

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Proven performer, Lloyd Borrett, to help drive AVG to new heights

Melbourne, 20 November 2007 — Internet security software distributor, AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd has strengthened its executive management team with the appointment of Lloyd Borrett as Marketing Manager.

In this newly created position, Borrett will be responsible for raising awareness of AVG beyond its traditional "AVG Free" reputation. AVG has grown rapidly to become the world's fourth largest vendor of anti-virus software measured by installed user base. The full suite of AVG products now provide award winning Internet security solutions for home, small and medium business, plus enterprise users.

A proven performer with a strong focus on results, Borrett has spent more than 30 years in the Australian ICT sector. This has included various management roles with companies ranging from ITR Group, Monash.NET (now Readify) and Oakton, to Expert Software Services (now Infosys), Protech Australia, MicroHelp and HiSoft.

Director of AVG (AU/NZ), Peter Cameron, said Borrett's well-honed skills in all aspects of management and strategic planning, marketing, communications and customer relationship management will help to focus the organisation on key areas of growth potential.

"We're delighted to have secured Lloyd for this important role and look forward to him making a significant contribution to AVG's continued growth within our Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific marketplace," he said. "We want to move from being a product-focused company into a marketing-focused one, so we can help our resellers and partners increase their sales and grow AVG's market share."

Research Study Reports High Satisfaction Among AVG Users in the USA and Europe

Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:00:00 GMT

GRISOFT, the developer of AVG Internet security software, today revealed results of an international public opinion survey on AVG reception in the United States, Great Britain and the Czech Republic. Prague-based market analysis group, Factum Invenio and Keating Concept, located in New York, performed the study on 3393 users of different anti-virus software.

The research shows the overall satisfaction rate of AVG users in the United States and Great Britain to be 94%, with the Czech Republic at 93%. Respondents from each country share the perception of AVG Anti-Virus as highly advanced security software. Users also attributed frequent and automatic updates and good customer service/technical support as reasons for satisfaction.

AVG is also very popular with IT professionals. In the United States, AVG scored higher satisfaction than all American security products, with 82% of IT managers considering AVG to be reliable, effective, technologically advanced and with a good price-to-performance ratio.

“We highly value the satisfaction of AVG users, whether home or professional,” explains Larry Bridwell, Global Security Strategist for AVG. “We continually strive to provide the best products to protect against threats without draining system resources. It is very gratifying that computer users worldwide recognise that AVG is meeting these ambitious goals.”

The survey also found that corporate customers in all of the countries chose functionality and quality of security products as the most important aspects when selecting security software. However, Czech users focus on customer support and price, British IT professionals prefer compatibility with software already deployed on their networks and American users are most concerned with technical support, price and functionality.

AVG Receives First Virus Bulletin Certification on Windows Vista

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 13:00:00 GMT

AVG Anti-Virus 7.5 passes the most recent virus tests for the latest VB 100 Certification

Melbourne, 14 February 2007 – Avalanche Technology Group, Australasian distributor of GRISOFT’s AVG security software, today announced that AVG Anti-Virus has received Virus Bulletin’s VB100 award for tests completed on Microsoft Windows Vista. This award states that AVG had found and removed all presented viruses considered to be "in the wild" and is therefore ready to protect users of Microsoft’s new operating system. The quality of AVG Anti-Virus for 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista is also approved by ICSA Labs, which recently certified AVG Anti-Virus on the Vista platform.

“The close cooperation with Microsoft in developing security tools for beta versions of Windows Vista and the preparation for the Vista launch was a great experience for us,” said Larry Bridwell, Global Security Strategist for AVG. “We can now confidently say that users of our security products are fully prepared to face a broad range of Internet threats even when upgrading to Windows Vista.”

Virus Bulletin is one of the known authorities in the security industry. VB editors regularly test security products against real risks on numerous operating systems. AVG not only passed the current testing on Windows Vista but it continues to keep 100% success rate since AVG products were tested in 2004.

AVG protects Vista users against a broad range of Internet threats including viruses, trojans, spyware, spam, dialers and worms. The comprehensive AVG 7.5 product line offers its users reliable automatic updates with a simple to use, unified user interface.

Avalanche provides its commercial AVG clients with free customer support via telephone and email during Australian business hours, backed up by full 24 / 7 / 365 support from GRISOFT.

All products in the AVG range are available on the Avalanche website www.avalanche.com.au and via its extensive network of resellers located throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Alert, maybe, but not all armed

Wed, 17 May 2006 14:00:00 GMT

"Alert, maybe, but not all armed" was is an article written by Sydney journalist, Graeme Philipson and published in Next in the Sydney Morning Herald and Melbourne Age, Tuesday, 18 October 2005. Click here to read the article.

AVG Network Edition voted best

Wed, 11 Jan 2006 13:00:00 GMT

AVG Network Edition has been awarded the coveted SC Magazine Best of 2005 for best antivirus program. This award reflects AVG’s virus detection ability as well as enterprise level reporting and updating capabilities provided in AVGADMIN (www.scmagazine.com).

AVG Anti-Virus products awarded best antivirus program of the year

Wed, 11 Jan 2006 13:00:00 GMT

AVG Anti-Virus achieved the honour of being voted best antivirus program by readers of Personal Computer World, the UK’s number 1 monthly computer magazine in their 2005 Awards for Excellence (www.pcw.co.uk).

News and Media Releases from AVG (AU/NZ)

Valentine's Day: How to Send and Receive e-Cards Safely

The Worm Ate My Homework: New Back-To-School Computer Use Checklist For Parents

Please support the Haiti Earthquake Appeal 2010 - Add a donation button

AVG Warns Against Growing Threat of Cyber Crime at Home

AVG (AU/NZ) Appoints Michael Dowling as Corporate Sales Director

AVG Shows Why It's Still the #1 Most Downloaded Software

AVG wins Checkmark Platinum Product Award by Westcoast Labs for AVG 9.0

West Coast Labs Release

Demand for Unparalleled Performance Validation

AVG (AU/NZ) Prices Lowered

AVG Security Predictions for 2010

As Christmas Nears, AVG (AU/NZ) Advises Shoppers How to Stay Safe Online

AVG (AU/NZ) Again Wins Computer Troubleshooters' Vendor of the Year Award

AVG (AU/NZ) Growing Fast in an Economy Looking for Security

AVG 9.0 Business Security Offerings Deliver Industrial-Strength Protection

Be Safer Online with New, Faster AVG 9.0

OPSWAT and AVG Technologies Partner to Enhance Application Removal

AVG Scoops Up Security Industry Awards

AVG Protects Campuses from Online Threats

Social Networking Poll Shows Users More Vulnerable Than Ever

Six Simple Steps to Stay Secure:

Keep in touch with AVG

AVG LinkScanner Is Making the Internet Clean and Safe, A Half Million Computers At A Time

Where to Download

Follow Us

Online Criminals Learn From Twitter, Warns AVG (AU/NZ)

AVG (AU/NZ) Achieves Record Sales, Adds Headcount Despite Recession

Innovative Model Delivers Results

Multi-Tier Distribution Model Works for Everyone

Business Operations Expanded to Support Sales Growth

3 offers free AVG Internet Security

AVG Protects Suncorp Bank Customers from Online Threats

AVG Technologies Receives Yet Another Virus Bulletin 100 Certification

VB100 Test Procedures

Protect Your Privacy with AVG Security Toolbar

AVG Introduces Streamlined, Highly-Scalable Protection for Linux

AVG Technologies Opens International Research Centre

AVG Technologies is Double Winner of 2009 Global Excellence Awards

AVG Launches Free Protection Against Online Threats

AVG (AU/NZ) on the Conficker/Downadup/Kido Worm

Conficker/Downadup/Kido Worm Infects Over 9 Million PCs

AVG Launches New Protection Against Identity Theft

AVG Announces AVG Internet Security 8.5 with Identity Protection

AVG Announces E-Mail Server Level Anti-Spam Protection

AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.5 Upgrade Includes LinkScanner Active Safe-Surf

Support the Vinnies Victorian Disaster Appeal - Add a donation button

Please support the Victorian Bushfire Appeal - Add a donation button

Short-lived stealthy attacks are the new web threats

Did You Know?

AVG Named Finalist for Best SME Security Solution

AVG Technologies Announces Acquisition of Sana Security

AVG 8.0 Protects Against Dangerous Internet Explorer Vulnerability

AVG to 'Slam the Online Holiday Scam' with Detection of Bogus E-Greeting Messages

AVG Named as One of the Best

AVG Wins Another Virus Bulletin Award

AVG Responds to and Resolves LinkScanner Issues

AVG Technologies attains Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Status

Australia Tops Global Cyber Crime Impact Survey

Gender Issues

AVG Performs Well for Channel

AVG (AU/NZ) Named in Top 50 of BRW Fast Starters 2008

AVG 8.0 showcased to capacity crowd at CeBIT Australia 2008

AVG receives PC Answers Recommended Award

Leading Internet security vendor Grisoft changes name to AVG Technologies

AVG Research Team Looks Back at 2007's Top Malware Threats

AVG acquires Exploit Prevention Labs - LinkScanner Safe Surfing Technology

AVG highly commended in PC Authority Best Software awards

AVG (AU/NZ) Expands Executive Team with New Marketing Manager

Research Study Reports High Satisfaction Among AVG Users in the USA and Europe

AVG Receives First Virus Bulletin Certification on Windows Vista

Alert, maybe, but not all armed

AVG Network Edition voted best

AVG Anti-Virus products awarded best antivirus program of the year