AVG gives praise to NZ Government Cyber Security Strategy

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AVG (AU/NZ) gives praise to NZ Government Cyber Security Strategy

Auckland, 9 May 2011 - The New Zealand Government's Cyber Security Strategy is a big step forward for a nation in need says AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd, the distributor of the award-winning AVG anti-virus and Internet security software in Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific.

Lloyd Borrett, Security Evangelist at AVG (AU/NZ) says the New Zealand Government's strategy will be a great influence to the awareness and change of attitude that needs to occur in New Zealand regarding cyber security.

"It is fantastic to see the New Zealand Government taking action and devising a plan to help keep its country secure from online dangers and we commend Communications and Information Technology Minister Joyce for this very timely initiative," says Borrett.

"Cyber security is an issue that affects many New Zealanders and needs to be taken seriously on all levels.

"Unfortunately, people don't realise how prevalent and dangerous viruses, Trojans, identity theft and scams are until they experience them first hand."

Earlier this year, AVG (AU/NZ) partnered with Government-funded organisation, NetSafe to research New Zealanders' online habits and perceptions of cyber security.

It found that only 50% of recipients saw online security as being a serious issue; and while 74% of users thought their home computer was safe from online threats, only half had installed all the security needed to avoid cyber criminals and malware attacks.

The Cyber Security Strategy aims to increase awareness about online security, protect government systems and information and review incident response and planning.

"We welcome the establishment of a National Cyber Security Centre with more resources and focus," Borrett continued. "We also look forward to seeing progress in setting up a New Zealand Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) as a centre of excellence for early warning, incident response and international cooperation."

ENDS

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