What Do You Do When "All You Want for Christmas is Your Identity Back?"

November 23, 2006; 08:07 AM
PC Tools Limited warned holiday shoppers today that up to 50 percent of new spyware threats coming from China and Russia target specific information for identity theft.

“Internet hackers are focusing on looting companies and stealing identities," says Michael Greene, Vice President for Product Strategy, who adds 90 percent of holiday threats are from spyware rather than viruses.

At the same time, Jim Meem, Director of PC Tools’ Malware Research Center, warns: “We are particularly concerned that places—like Russia—are selling spyware kits, multiplying this problem.”

Greene said PC Tools is launching Spyware Doctor 5.0 to improve the award-winning* security software, providing consumers with an even more effective tool in identifying and removing potentially harmful spyware.

At the same time, PC Tools has updated its Anti-Virus 3.0 to make it faster and more responsive. “We know users are especially vulnerable during the holidays,” Greene said.

Greene added that, in terms of identify theft; PC Tools has been praised by respected experts in the security field—including PC Magazine—as the leader in handling phishing scams, and identifying and removing keylogging programs.

Those who have been caught by fraudsters should: 1. Contact fraud departments’ of consumer reporting companies. 2. Close suspected tampered accounts. 3. File a police report. 4. Complain to the Federal Trade Commission.


* Current awards include: PC Magazine Best Anti-Spyware 2005, Editor’s Choice 2006; Windows XP Magazine, Editor’s Choice; PC Pro Recommended 2006, A List product; PC Answers Editor’s Choice 2006; PC Advisor Gold award 2006; PC User ‘Top Buy’ 2006; Computer Shopper Best Anti-Spyware of 2006.

ABOUT PC Tools Limited

PC Tools is a global security software leader with products including award-winning Spyware Doctor along with effective anti-spyware products. The PC Tools Malware Research Centre monitors trends and emerging spyware issues and provides security solutions for the consumer and enterprise marketplace. The company is headquartered in Sydney, with offices in San Francisco, London, Dublin, Melbourne and Kiev. PC Tools has a global network of distributors, resellers, and retailers.