Security News
Harmful PDF files have no chance with Avira
Mon, 21 July 2008
Tettnang, 21 July 2008 – Security experts from the independent Internet Storm Center have recently analyzed harmful PDF files that were sent by email. These manipulated PDF documents try to take advantage of vulnerabilities in older versions of the Adobe PDF-Reader and try to install a harmful program on the victim’s computer.
The detection of the analyzed Trojan PDF files by anti-virus software was, in general, not especially successful. Avira’s AntiVir detected the harmful programs when tested at the Internet Storm Center and was among only a few products that did – even though the detection sample had not been updated (see the English article).
Avira AntiVir protects its customers with generic and heuristic detection methods against unknown threats from the Internet. We also use the protection provided by proven signature based detection which detects harmful files with a kind of digital fingerprint. In addition, Avira supplements the protection with an anti-rootkit component. Rootkits hide harmful programs on computers from users and installed software.
Everyone can download free basic protection on the website www.free-av.com. A one-year license of Avira AntiVir Premium that protects users against attacks caused by manipulated Internet sites and spyware, is available from the Avira Online Shop for only 19.95 euro. Avira Premium Security Suite, the all-round protection, with firewall, spam filter and backup component, is available for 39.95 euro a year.
About Avira
Avira is a worldwide leading supplier of self-developed security solutions for professional and private use. With more than twenty years of experience, the company is one of the pioneers in this field.
The security expert has several locations in Germany and partnerships in Europe, Asia and America. At its headquarters in Tettnang near Lake Constance, Avira is one of the region’s largest employers with more than 180 employees. Worldwide more than 250 persons are employed and their work regularly wins awards. Avira AntiVir Personal, used by millions of private users, represents a significant contribution to security.
Avira’s national and international customers include renowned corporations listed on the stock exchange but also educational institutions and public authorities. In addition to protection of the virtual environment, Avira also provides for more protection and security in the real world by supporting the Auerbach Foundation. Established by the founder of the company, the Auerbach Foundation promotes charitable and social projects as well as the arts, culture and science.
Contact:
Avira GmbH
Elisabeth Rothbart
Lochhamer Schlag 5a
D-82166 Graefelfing/Munich
Phone: +49 (0) 89 8583 639 17
Fax: +49 (0) 89 8583 639 20
Email: elisabeth.rothbart@avira.com