March 2006

AcumenIT Joins Forces with Sunbelt Software

Spyware covertly gathers user information through the user's Internet connection without their knowledge or permission, usually for advertising purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the Internet. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the Internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else, gathering information about e-mail addresses and even passwords and credit card numbers.

Sunbelt Software have developed "CounterSpy Enterprise," a powerful, centralised, policy-based second-generation product that allows system administrators to detect and delete over 35 categories of spyware. CounterSpy Enterprise agents are installed on all PC's that are to be protected - these agents are controlled by and report back to a management server. Any detected spyware is passed through a set of customisable policies and the defined action taken, be it ignore, quarantine or delete. All actions are logged and detailed reports can be generated giving details of malware found and actions taken. The spyware threat database is updated from multiple sources - this includes: Sunbelt's dedicated research team; tens of thousands of people that participate in Sunbelt's Threat Net Community of opt-in users; and new spyware definitions for Microsoft which Sunbelt receives. No other anti-spyware product can claim such a comprehensive database.

"We are looking forward to working with AcumenIT and believe we can forge a relationship which will benefit ourselves, AcumenIT and, most importantly, CounterSpy Enterprise customers," said Ian Masters, sales director at Sunbelt Software. "The software we have developed is highly sophisticated, but easy to install and will undoubtedly benefit administrators and help negate the issues often experienced with infected machines."

Janice Starrs, Director of AcumenIT commented, "We are delighted to be working alongside Sunbelt Software. Spyware is increasingly becoming apparent in the workplace - this can lead to issues such as users finding their pc's very slow or unusable to the more obvious security risks. As part of our proactive attitude to IT support, AcumenIT has for some time been looking to work with a security solutions company to complement our extensive range of support contracts. Joining forces with Sunbelt Software will enable us to offer clients a cost effective, preventative solution to spyware threats. We are committed to the Counterspy Enterprise product and are determined to promote the benefits of Counterspy Enterprise software to the north east business community".

Acumen can be contacted on 01224 573904 or by logging on to the group's website at www.acumen.info.