Webroot Software, Inc., a leading provider of security software for the consumer, enterprise and SMB markets, urges Internet users to use caution when visiting horse-racing Web sites and placing online wagers, which can expose users' personal information to cyber criminals. The 133rd annual Kentucky Derby will be held on May 5, and with this comes an increase in online activity due to both watching the horse race and placing online wagers.
BOULDER, Colo. (BusinessWire EON) May 4, 2007 --
Webroot Software, Inc., a leading
provider of security software for the consumer, enterprise and SMB
markets, urges Internet users to use caution when visiting horse-racing
Web sites and placing online wagers, which can expose users' personal
information to cyber criminals. The 133rd
annual Kentucky Derby
will be held on May 5, and with this comes an increase in online
activity due to both watching the horse race and placing online wagers.
Each year, $15 billion is wagered on thoroughbred, harness and
quarter-horse racing events, and the Kentucky Derby marks one of the year’s
biggest races. In fact, a total of $118,426,874 was wagered on the 2006
race, establishing a North American record for a single race.
As Internet usage increases due to this year’s
race, Webroot cautions users about a potential spike in the instances of
system monitors and keyloggers. Classified as some of the most dangerous
computer security threats, system monitors and keyloggers can track and
record a user's individual keystrokes, making it easy for spyware
criminals to steal personal information such as credit card numbers.
To help Internet users ensure the safety of their information, Webroot
is offering a free computer scan to
check for spyware, viruses and other threatening forms of malware. Users
can visit Webroot's Web site and
run a complete, deep scan of their system.
In addition to running a free spyware
and virus scan, Webroot recommends users adhere to the following
best practices when placing online wagers:
-
Keep your computer protected. Run updated versions of
best-of-breed anti-spyware and anti-virus software and scan your
entire system at least once a week. If you are not currently using a
security solution, Webroot offers both spyware and virus protection
with Webroot®
Spy Sweeper® with AntiVirus, which can
be easily downloaded.
-
Follow general best practices for online purchasing. According
to econsumer.gov, all secure
websites have the following characteristics in common:
-
The Web site address should begin with "https:"
-
The page should display a closed padlock symbol or state that
information is encrypted.
-
Every Web site should have a privacy policy. The statement should
advise what information is collected, how it will be used, and provide
you with an opportunity to refuse having your information sold or
shared with others.
ABOUT WEBROOT
Webroot Software, Inc. provides
industry-leading security software for consumers, enterprises and small
and medium-sized businesses worldwide. Globally recognized for its
award-winning Spy Sweeper® line of
anti-spyware products, Webroot recently incorporated anti-virus
protection into two new products for consumers and SMBs, respectively:
Spy Sweeper® with AntiVirus software and
Webroot® SME Security software. The company
also recently expanded into the parental controls software market with
the introduction of Webroot® Child Safe®
software. The Boulder, Colorado-based company is privately held and
backed by some of the industry's leading venture capital firms,
including Technology Crossover Ventures,
Accel Partners and Mayfield.
Webroot's software consistently receives top review ratings by respected
third-party media and has been adopted by millions globally. Available
as either branded solutions or on an OEM basis, Webroot products can be
found at www.webroot.com and on the
shelves of leading retailers worldwide. To find out more about Webroot,
visit the website or call 1-800-772-9383.
©2007 Webroot Software, Inc. All rights
reserved. Webroot, Spy Sweeper and Child Safe are registered trademarks
or trademarks of Webroot Software, Inc. All other trademarks are
properties of their respective owners.
Trackback URL: http://www.prweb.com/pingpr.php/WmV0YS1Ib3JyLUNyYXMtUHJvZi1NYWduLVplcm8=
|