Laplink PCdefense Reviewer s Guide

Transcription

1 Laplink PCdefense Reviewer s Guide TM

2 Reviewer s Guide TM Letter from the CEO Overview Target Markets Features, System Requirements, Pricing & Availability Competitive Advantages Comparison Chart Glossary a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

3 LETTER FROM THE CEO 1 Dear Member of the Press, As a pioneer in developing utilities for PC users, Laplink has drawn on more than 23 years of experience to create PCdefense, a unique security product. As Laplink s products have evolved over the years, the focus has shifted from cable-based connectivity (serial, parallel, and USB) to Internet-based connection methods. Our key products such as Laplink Gold, ShareDirect, and Laplink Everywhere reflect this evolution. But as Internet usage has increased over the years, so has the risk. For the typical virus or malware problem, adequate solutions and patches have been made available to protect users. However, we are now facing far more sophisticated threats. PC users must not only protect their PCs from amateur hackers, but must protect themselves from organized, professional cyber criminals intent on capturing their valuable information and stealing their identities. A threat to safe and secure usage of the Internet is a threat to all PC users. With our heritage of innovation and utilities, we turned to the task at hand improving the protection of Internet users. PCdefense was designed to fill the gaps that are putting millions of home and business Internet users at risk of privacy violations, identity theft, and catastrophic attack. By incorporating the technologies we ve developed over the years, we have produced an innovative product unlike any other security solution. PCdefense is an integrated protection and disaster recovery suite that protects your identity against multiple spyware and crimeware threats, and insures your files, settings, and programs against any potentially devastating event. We hope your experience with the product is a positive one. We appreciate your continued support of Laplink products and look forward to your feedback. Regards, Thomas Koll CEO a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

4 OVERVIEW 2 PCdefense is designed to fill the gaps in conventional security products that are putting millions of home and business Internet users at risk of privacy violations, identity theft, and catastrophic attack. PCdefense has three distinct advantages over conventional security solutions: Protects against the widest range of Internet identity threats, including elusive keyloggers and rootkits. Uses signature-independent technology to defend against even new, uncatalogued threats. Includes a unique disaster recovery module that insures files, settings and programs against potentially devastating failure. PCdefense is also designed to be non-conflicting and complementary, so it can be used as a stand-alone security product, or layered over an existing security solution for additional protection. By taking a unique approach to security, and combining defense and recovery capabilities in one package, PCdefense goes further in protecting YOU and your PC. Protect Your Identity Prevent Adware Applications Detect Rootkits Remove Viruses Defend Against Crimeware Destroy Spyware Block Keyloggers Recover from Catastrophic Failure a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

5 OVERVIEW (continued) 3 COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES OVERVIEW By combining full protection and disaster recovery, PCdefense extends the capabilities of conventional security solutions and offers PC users peace of mind. PCdefense stands apart from other leading security products by offering protection from the widest range of security problems (including illicit keyloggers and deep rootkits), and insurance for your files, settings, and programs against any catastrophic event, even the destruction of your PC. No other security product currently on the market offers this powerful combination of full security and insurance against catastrophe. Please see COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES for more information. TARGET MARKET OVERVIEW Home / Small Business Users PCdefense offers home and small business users protection against spyware and viruses, and goes further than many leading security providers by protecting against keyloggers, and even rootkits. Plus, PCdefense includes a unique disaster recovery capability that lets users recover from a catastrophic attack by restoring their files, settings and programs at any time. Enterprise / Corporate Clients Because PCdefense is designed to be non-conflicting with other security programs, components can be modularized and used to patch holes in an existing antispyware and data recovery regimen at minimal cost. PCdefense is also an ideal solution for keeping mobile computers secure when they need to connect to the Internet outside the corporate security infrastructure. Online Service Providers Online providers such as banks, etailers, and ISPs, whose services require the transmission of sensitive customer data, can increase the trust and loyalty of their customers by offering PCdefense SpyAlarm TM and Keylogger Prevention as a value-added or fee-based security solution. Please see TARGET MARKETS for more information. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

6 TARGETS MARKETS 4 HOME CONSUMER Protects against new, uncatalogued threats Protects against keyloggers and rootkits Includes disaster recovery of files, settings, and programs Will not conflict with other security programs Complements and extends the functionality of existing security programs Home consumers require a greater level of protection from Internet-delivered threats than ever before. People are spending more time online, and are more active in their online behaviors. They are downloading more applications, accessing more appletdependent multimedia, and conducting more personal and financial transactions online. As their risk factors increase, the need for a solution that offers complete protection from spyware and viruses becomes more acute. PCdefense meets this need by providing protection from all forms of adware, spyware, crimeware, and malware, as well as disaster recovery for their peace of mind. PCdefense protects consumers not just from conventional spyware and virus applications, but also from keyloggers that hook directly into the user s keyboard, recording and transmitting every character they type. PCdefense also detects rootkits, which can be used to cloak the activities of unauthorized programs. Rootkits are affecting more and more home consumers, yet few products can match PCdefense in identifying and providing a means of eliminating a wide range of rootkit threats. SpyAlarm TM, another PCdefense exclusive, alerts consumers to both known and emerging threats, so fewer unauthorized spyware applications can sneak past its filter. Most security products refer to lists of known types of spyware (also known as definitions, or signatures ) and make behind-the-scenes decisions about which applications to identify as spyware. In comparison, SpyAlarm alerts the consumer any time a program engages in risky behavior (such as writing to certain registry keys), and allows them to decide whether or not to allow the application to proceed, thus identifying both known and new threats. Perhaps the most important feature for home consumers is the insurance policy built into PCdefense. This is the only security product that allows the user to recover files, settings, and programs when disaster strikes. Whether a user s PC is destroyed due to a software or hardware malfunction, physical damage, or even if it s stolen, PCdefense provides the ultimate insurance. It keeps a copy of everything files, settings, and programs safe and ready to be restored to the repaired PC, or even a new PC if necessary. PCdefense does not conflict with other antispyware and antivirus products, which means that consumers looking for an extra measure of protection can layer PCdefense over their existing security solution. Because PCdefense uses a different approach to fighting spyware, because it detects rootkits, and because it allows the user to recover their files, settings, and programs after a catastrophe, this product is the perfect complement to conventional security products. It extends the functionality and fills in the security gaps in solutions such as Norton AntiVirus or Webroot Spy Sweeper. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

7 TARGET MARKETS (continued) 5 ENTERPRISE CORPORATE Protects against advanced security threats such as keyloggers and rootkits Recovers PC files, settings, and programs after any disaster Available in modular components for customized solutions Complements existing security products without causing conflicts Protects PCs connecting to the Internet from outside the corporate firewall and server-based security infrastructure SpyAlarm TM, a PCdefense exclusive feature, operates differently from other spyware detection systems. Conventional antispyware programs allow or block new software installations by referencing a list of identified spyware. This means that new spyware that has not yet been identified and added to the list will slip through this filter. SpyAlarm works independently of such lists, thus identifying both known and new threats. SpyAlarm alerts the user whenever a program engages in potentially risky behavior (such as writing to certain registry keys), and allows them to decide whether or not to allow the application to proceed. PCdefense Rootkit Scan offers advanced rootkit detection. These cloaking devices have become a powerful tool in the arsenals of both hackers and organized criminals. Even legitimate rootkits, although themselves benign, may create security gaps through which malicious code can penetrate. It is unknown how many software providers have integrated rootkits (or rootkit-like technology) into their software. PCdefense Keylogger Prevention offers protection against keylogging software. Unauthorized keylogging software on a corporate system can quickly create a security nightmare. Passwords and sensitive data can be captured by spyware that hooks directly into the keyboard, capturing employees every keystroke. Some leading security software providers include protection against some forms of keyloggers, but are unable to guard against keyloggers deployed in conjunction with a cloaking rootkit device. PCdefense protects against both types. Laptops and other PCs that connect to the Internet outside the corporate security infrastructure can be protected using PCdefense. PCdefense alerts the user to any program that attempts to hook the keyboard or change the registry. It also includes diagnostics that scan and clean spyware, viruses, keyloggers, and rootkits from the mobile PC, so it won t introduce infections into the corporate environment. Disaster Recovery allows IT administrators to minimize employees downtime after a catastrophic attack. An infected PC can be quickly restored to good working order with a reinstallation of all files, settings, and programs using PCdefense Disaster Recovery. Disaster Recovery is especially useful in the recovery of data after damage or theft of a corporate laptop. The user s entire working environment can be easily loaded onto a new PC, even if the hardware or operating system don t match those of the original. PCdefense can be layered over any existing enterprise security solution in order to extend and reinforce its functionality. PCdefense components are completely modular and the product can be customized to fit the specific requirements of an enterprise customer. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

8 TARGET MARKETS (continued) 6 BANKS, ETAILERS, ISPS Modular, customizable security solution Co-branding or re-branding options Self-managed or outsourced technical support options Protects online customers at the source (user s PC) against identity theft and fraud Protects against advanced security threats such as keyloggers and rootkits Online providers such as banks, etailers, and ISPs have a vested interest in keeping the Internet a safe and secure environment for their customers. When online financial transactions are perceived to be unsafe, providers lose customers and damage their reputations. Yet more often than not, a breach in security doesn t originate with the service provider, but with some form of spyware active on the customer s PC. Making PCdefense available to customers can help them to patch those security gaps and keep the online experience a safe and positive one. Online providers whose services require the transmission of sensitive customer data can increase the trust and loyalty of their customers by offering PCdefense SpyAlarm TM, Rootkit Scan, and/or Keylogger Prevention as a value-added or fee-based security solution. PCdefense components are modular and the product can be customized to fit the needs of specific online providers. The result is a lightweight security solution that complements any existing security measures. The customized product can be co-branded, or re-branded to fit the online provider s needs. Technical support for the product can be managed in-house or outsourced to Laplink Software. When consumers are banking or shopping online, the weakest security link isn t the bank or the online store... it s the consumer s PC. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

9 FEATURES, SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, PRICING & AVAILABILITY 7 Features: SpyAlarm TM Blocks spyware before it can begin tracking or transmitting the user s personal information. Spyware Scan Removes existing spyware on the user s system. Scans for evidence of spyware, adware, malware, spybots, browser hijackers, and keyloggers. Virus Scan Delivers on-demand, web-based scanning tools that are constantly updated, protecting you against the latest virus threats. Spyware Scanner screenshot Keylogger Prevention Prevents illicit keylogger software from capturing the user s typed passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data. Rootkit Scan Identifies hidden files and processes that are undetectable by conventional security programs and even by the user s own operating system. Disaster Recovery Allows the user to recover all files, settings, and programs in the event of any catastrophic event. Rootkit Scan screenshot Advanced Repair Tools Consolidates spyware and virus monitoring and repair functions in one console. System Requirements: Windows 2000 / XP Home / XP Pro 133 MHz or higher Pentium-compatible CPU Keylogger Prevention screenshot 64 MB of RAM 20 MB of free hard disk space Pricing: Physical version: $49.95 Download version: $44.95 Disaster Recovery screenshot * Includes unlimited spyware detection and 1 year renewable spyware removal. Spyware Removal: $19.95 / year (first year free) Availability: Online: Retail: Most major software retailers, including CompUSA, Fry s, Microcenter, Buy.com, and Amazon Main Console screenshot a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

10 COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES 8 PCdefense goes a step beyond existing security products by incorporating both a proactive and a defensive approach. PC users and their machines are protected by an active alert system that monitors each potential threat to their security, even those that have eluded list-based classification. PCdefense also provides the final line of defense by allowing users to recover their files, settings, and programs after any catastrophe. This complete solution can stand alone in protecting the user from an Internet-based attack, or can be layered to fill the gaps in an existing security approach. Integrated PCdefense includes everything an Internet-connected user needs to stay secure and insured against any type of invasive, unauthorized, or stealth software. Non-conflicting PCdefense is a powerful stand-alone security application, and it can also be layered over a user s existing security solution without causing software conflicts. Additionally, Keylogger Prevention can be set to allow legitimate keylogging programs such as parental control or employee monitoring software while continuing to provide protection against illicit keyloggers. Complementary Because PCdefense uses a different approach than most security products, it is an ideal way to fill any gaps in an existing solution and provide the user with maximum protection. Unique features such as SpyAlarm TM, Keylogger Prevention, Rootkit Scan, and Disaster Recovery work seamlessly with other antivirus and antispyware solutions. Innovative Although no security solution can guarantee 100% infallible security, PCdefense gives users the ultimate insurance against worst-case scenarios by including a unique, integrated backup utility that recovers all files, settings, and programs. No other security product includes full recovery functionality. Proactive SpyAlarm and Keylogger Prevention don t passively refer to a published list of known spyware to decide what to block and allow on the user s PC. These features actively alert the user based on activity that could be dangerous. This means that even spyware too new to be catalogued will trigger an alert. Advanced PCdefense allows the user to detect rootkits, the sophisticated and potentially devastating cloaking devices that have only just begun to make security headlines. Even top security applications don t always detect rootkits. Most importantly, PCdefense Disaster Recovery helps users to recover from an unpatchable rootkit infection. Convenient PCdefense Repair Tools provides system administrators or advanced users with a convenient, centralized control panel for monitoring and repair activities. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

11 COMPARISON CHART 9 PCdefense Spy Sweeper Microsoft Antispyware ZoneAlarm Antispyware McAfee Antispyware Norton Internet Security Spyware Scan Virus Scan Spyware block Keylogger prevention Disaster Recovery Rootkit detection NOTE: This chart compares select functionality and does not represent a comprehensive product overview. Information is based on vendors product descriptions, which are subject to change. For additional information, please contact vendors directly. Protection: PCdefense helps protect against adware, spyware, crimeware and viruses, including elusive forms of malware such as rootkits and keyloggers. Insurance: PCdefense provides full recovery of files, settings, and even programs after any catastrophe, including spyware or viral attack, hardware damage, or outright theft. With PCdefense, you can protect the contents of your PC and restore everything (with the exception of the operating system) to a repaired PC or even a new machine if necessary. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,

12 GLOSSARY 10 Adware: Software designed to deliver advertising content, often in a manner or context that may be unexpected and unwanted by users. Many adware applications also perform tracking functions, and therefore may also be categorized as tracking technologies. Crimeware: Software designed to steal personal information, such as passwords, banking information, or credit card numbers, or to perform some other illegal operation. Crimeware is malicious software that allows a criminal to gain financially from illegally acquired information. Keylogger (or Keystroke logger): Tracking software that records keyboard and/or mouse activity. Keyloggers typically either store the recorded keystrokes for later retrieval or they transmit them to the remote process or person employing the keylogger. While there are some legitimate uses of keyloggers, they are often used maliciously by attackers to surreptitiously track behavior or perform unwanted or unauthorized actions, including identity theft. List-based protection: Spyware or virus protection that operates by consulting a known list of spyware and/or viruses (also known as a definition or signature list) before allowing or preventing an application from running on the user s computer. The advantage to list-based protection is that it allows the program to make security decisions without involving the user. The disadvantage to this type of protection is that spyware and viruses that have not been identified and added to the list yet can slip through this filter and infect the user s computer. Malware: Malicious software. Malware is designed to create computer problems for the user. These problems can range from petty annoyances to a full-blown computer melt-down. Registry: A database integrated into certain operating systems that stores information, including user preferences, settings, and licence information about hardware and software installed on a user s computer. Rootkit: A rootkit is a type of software that allows other types of unwanted, invasive software to run undetected. It is basically a cloaking device that conceals the existence and activities of other types of software. Although rootkits have been used by reputable software companies for legitimate reasons, their presence on a PC system always poses a serious security problem. Rootkits are very difficult to detect and repair. Signature: A code that identifies a specific type of software; for instance, individual virus or spyware applications. Lists of signatures are used by some antivirus and antispyware applications to identify and block them from launching on a user s PC. Spyware: Spyware is usually unsolicited, unwanted, and often unauthorized software that monitors (or spies on ) a computer user. Sometimes spyware is used to gather marketing information on the user, and sometimes it is used to collect private data such as password, banking and credit card information (see crimeware). At best, spyware is an invasion of the user s privacy. At worst, it poses a risk of identity theft leading to potentially devastating financial consequences. All spyware is designed to run undetected, since its purpose is to extract as much information as possible from an unsuspecting user. Virus: A computer virus is a program designed to cause problems for computer users. They are also designed to replicate themselves and infect other computers through a variety of means. Unlike spyware applications, which are designed to run without the user s knowledge, viruses draw attention to themselves. Their purpose is not to steal the user s information for financial gain (by selling it to a marketing agency or using it for criminal purposes), but to disrupt and destabilize the computing environment as an act of malice. a question For further product or company information, or for technical support,