Verizon Focuses on Security Tools during Cyber Security Awareness Month

October 9, 2009

By Jennifer Hull

During October, the nation's Cyber Security Awareness Month, Internet users can take advantage of Verizon Security Advisor to assess their vulnerability to Internet-based threats and browse safely online.

Computer Protection Needed from More Than One Million Viruses

Statistics show that there are more than one million computer viruses active today, pointing to the need for consumers to find fast and simple ways of determining their risk levels and sufficient means for protecting their computers.

"Recent data collected by Verizon indicates that up to 65 percent of PC owners have inadequate or no online security software protection," said Peter Castleton, executive director for Verizon corporate marketing. "This number is stunning given the level of discussion and warnings about these cyber threats in both the public and private sector in recent years."

Verizon Security Advisor Provides Instant Virus and Spyware Detection

Through a fast and simple three-step process, Castleton said, consumers can find this protection through Verizon Security Advisor which provides an instant diagnosis of a PC's security status and detects whether essential anti-virus, anti-spyware, and personal firewall protection is in place. Launched earlier this year, Verizon Security Advisor already has nearly two million subscribers who benefit from free monthly security tips and tutorials as part of the award-winning software's ongoing risk assessment.

Internet users can access the free security scan at www.verizon.net/securityadvisor.

In addition to the free security tools and software, Verizon also offers consumers a comprehensive suite of security products for a monthly fee of $5.99 that can be added to a customer's monthly Verizon bill. Customers who sign up online get the first month free.