Absa becomes the first bank to offer clients free WAP Cellphone Banking anti-virus software.
The anti-virus software will help to protect clients from security attacks when using mobile phones for banking. This initiative is part of Absa's full-value banking offering, which provides its customers with secure and convenient banking.
The revolutionary PC-Cillin Mobile Security Software from Trend Micro is provided, in partnership with SecureData, and will be available from 6 August 2007.
In addition, Absa has also extended its free PC-Cillin anti-virus offer to its Internet banking customers for another year until 31 July 2008. Absa has provided free anti-virus software to its Internet banking customers since August 2003.
"Analysts predict that data-centric mobile devices will become a major target for malware attacks, and therefore Absa has taken the proactive step to assist our customers to safeguard against such attacks," says Christo Vrey, Absa Group Digital Channels General Manager.
"The Trend Micro Mobile Security application can protect smart phones and wireless handheld devices against viruses, worms, Trojans, and short message service (SMS) text message spam," adds Very.
Initially, the mobile anti-virus software can only be downloaded through the anti-virus centre on the Absa Internet Banking homepage (www.absa.co.za). However, downloads directly from a mobile phone will be available soon. The software is easy to download and install and can only be initiated by registered cellphone banking users. The downloaded software is valid for 365 days from the date of the download.
"The easy-to-use software will provide the user with an anti-spam facility for SMS text messages, flexible virus scanning, and brand new firewall security. The software is automatically updated and this ensures that the user is safeguarded against new known mutations and virus developments," says Vrey.
"Absa's proactive service-driven strategy to security helps to prevent clients from becoming victims of fraudulent online activity. We remain vigilant and constantly monitor the ways in which digital fraudsters operate and how their tactics evolve.
Absa is the market leader in the cellphone and Internet space in South Africa. It has over 420 000 cellphone banking services enabled and over 750 000 Internet banking customers.
Additional information:
Features of the anti-virus software:
* Anti-virus security
Detects and removes viruses and the latest threats from your e-mails, Internet downloads; removable media and PCs. Automatic updates immunise your system against the latest threats.
* Spyware protection
Blocks and removes spyware, adware, grayware, and root kits that hide deep inside your computer.
* Personal firewall
Intercepts hackers and network viruses trying to attack your computer and home network.
* Identity theft prevention
Protects you from online phishing scams designed to steal credit card and bank account numbers. Configures easily and notifies you of the latest Web site risk.
* Wireless network monitoring
Safeguards against unauthorised users invading your wireless home network.
* Home network control
Manages, configures and updates security for every PC on your network, with an easy-to-use management console.
* Household licence
Superior PC protection for up to three home or mobile computers.
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