Internet security technology provider Symantec says more than three million users worldwide turned to its free service, Symantec Security Check, to identify and address vulnerabilities in their PCs and Macintosh systems.
The Symantec Security Check is meant to help consumers understand Internet threats by analysing computers for potential security risks from hackers, viruses, and privacy threats and recommends ways to secure those risks.
"As evidenced by the overwhelming popularity of the Symantec Security Check, the free service is rapidly gaining global recognition as an effective tool for enabling consumers to stay a step ahead of the potential security risks associated with Internet computing," said Jako Voges, marketing manager, Middle East and Africa.
"By offering Symantec Security Check free to every PC and Macintosh user, Symantec is clearly demonstrating its solid commitment to making online safety a reality."
Symantec Security Check runs a variety of tests, including a network vulnerability scan and a NetBIOS availability scan to assess hacker vulnerability; an anti-virus software check, anti-virus definition check, and active Trojan application scan to assess virus susceptibility; and a browser information check that provides instructions, if necessary, on how to safeguard privacy.
It provides a detailed and concise description as well as comprehensive scan results and a recommended solution.
Giving the results of its findings, the company said 81 percent of the users who submitted results were found to be at risk of exposing their browsing history and releasing this information to web servers. Forty-six percent were found to be susceptible to viruses because they lacked anti-virus software or used outdated anti-virus software. Network vulnerability scan results indicated that 37 per cent of users had one or more ports visible to others on the Internet, thereby enabling malicious hackers to target their computers. In addition, 35 per cent of users were exposing information to Internet hackers through their NetBIOS ports.
Symantec recently unveiled its Norton Personal Firewall 2001 Version 3.0, for protection against hackers and other Internet threats. It said the new system detected and alerted users to attempted intrusions by hackers, by controlling all inbound and outbound Internet communications. The product also prevented a computer from sending personal data without the users knowledge so that only user-approved applications can access the Internet.
Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Symantec is a leading provider of virus protection, vulnerability assessment, intrusion prevention, Internet content and e-mail filtering, remote management technologies and security services to enterprises around the world. Symantec's Norton brand of consumer security products leads the market in worldwide retail sales and industry awards.
Symantec has worldwide operations in 36 countries.
