From the very beginning, an essential part of our company policy has been the commitment to providing accurate information about threats to your privacy and security, so that YOU can make informed decisions about how to handle possible threats.

Along with the extensive analysis and strict requirements that we have in place when objects are identified as spyware and malware in our Detection Database, we have always believed in leaving the door open for direct dialogue with adware vendors (authors/distributors of what is commonly referred to as malware and spyware).

Now for the moment you have all been waiting for ...

We are proud to announce that the Ad-Aware 2007 Beta has arrived!

For the 120,000 + beta testers that have registered to be among the first to try the all-new Ad-Aware, you can now download the Beta by using your registration information to log in to the Beta - Applications page in the Lavasoft Security Center (and keep in mind, it's not too late to register as a Lavasoft beta tester, if you have not already done so).

Todays security news story comes with a moral: never underestimate the importance of having good anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall software, along with always making sure to update your operating system.

Last week's pharming attack on over 50 financial institutions that targeted online customers in the U.S., Europe and Asia-Pacific has been shut down, but not before it was able to infect at least 1,000 PCs per day over a three day period.

From day one, we believed - and still believe - that computer users everywhere have the inherent right to choose what products they use to protect their personal privacy. So we are always just a little sceptical when Goliath force-feeds their newest programs on so many trusting and forgiving souls.

"It's just another Hallmark holiday." We've all heard that line from Valentines cynics who believe the day is mostly to benefit stores in selling more cards and merchandise.

But, sadly enough for the romantics among us, marketers are not the only ones who are using the occasion to their advantage. Whether or not you buy into the holiday, you'll need to stay on the lookout for online scams today.