McAfee, Inc. Warns Against Cybersecurity Complacency

As April 1 passed without any major cybersecurity incidents related to the high profile Conficker worm, McAfee, Inc. (NYSE:MFE) reminds computer users to continue to take PC security seriously.

"Conficker was a serious wake up call for PC users, but the truth is that far more dangerous threats lurk online every day,” said Barry McPherson, senior vice president of worldwide support at McAfee. "It is important that computer users don’t get complacent. They should keep their PCs secured by applying security patches and running up-to-date security software that should, at a minimum, include antimalware and a two-way firewall.”

There had been growing concern among the public and the media about a threat that could have been unleashed on April 1. The broad attention given to the worm moved PC users to seek out McAfee for expert advice. In the days leading up to April 1, McAfee’s Web site visits spiked 50 percent and support calls jumped 40 percent.

Though April 1 passed without incident, Conficker and many other threats make the rounds on the Internet every day. In fact, McAfee^® Avert^® Labs identified a record 1.6 million pieces of malware in 2008, a 450 percent increase over the prior year. We now identify an average of 5,500 new pieces of malware every day.

"McAfee can help protect your PC from cyberthreats,” said McPherson. "Being proactive about security is always easier than having to clean up an infection after the fact.”

McAfee recommends two basic actions that will ensure a Windows computer is protected:

1) Install Microsoft’s regular security updates

2) Run up-to-date security software with a firewall and malware protection to fend off malicious programs such as viruses, Trojans and spyware

Families who use the Internet should also consider anti-phishing protection, anti-spam and safe search and surf technologies such as McAfee SiteAdvisor^® software, a free download at www.siteadvisor.com. To stay current on the latest threats, consumers should regularly visit www.mcafee.com/advice.

For more information on the Conficker worm and protection, visit http://www.mcafee.com/us/threat_center/conficker.html.

For more information on McAfee’s security products visit http://www.mcafee.com/

About McAfee, Inc.

McAfee, Inc., headquartered in Santa Clara, California, is the world's largest dedicated security technology company. McAfee is relentlessly committed to tackling the world's toughest security challenges. The company delivers proactive and proven solutions and services that help secure systems and networks around the world, allowing users to safely connect to the Internet, browse and shop the web more securely. Backed by an award-winning research team, McAfee creates innovative products that empower home users, businesses, the public sector and service providers by enabling them to prove compliance with regulations, protect data, prevent disruptions, identify vulnerabilities, and continuously monitor and improve their security. http://www.mcafee.com

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