Verizon Out in Front of Cable Again With Launch of Internet Security Suite for Mac

Verizon announced today the availability of an Internet security suite designed specifically for Mac users - becoming the first major American Internet service provider to offer such a product over its network.

At the same time, Verizon also is making available to Mac broadband consumers a version of its Verizon Online Backup and Sharing (VOBS) designed for Apple's computer operating system.

"Mac users are an important and growing segment of the broadband community, and Verizon is becoming more and more focused on providing them with services that enhance their online experiences," said Susan Retta, Verizon vice president of consumer product management. "We want Mac fans to know they can turn to Verizon for online security they can't get from cable."

Like its PC counterpart, the Mac version of the Verizon Internet Security Suite (VISS) automatically updates its software and protects against viruses while users are online, in addition to firewall protection and critical parental controls. 

VISS, winner of the 2009 Global Product Excellence Award in Internet Security Solutions by "Info Security Products Guide," offers as part of its Mac-users security lineup:

• Virus Protection: Automatically safeguards customers from viruses, worms and Trojans. Simple to use, it offers automatic scans, updates and quarantines resulting in fewer support calls and a more secure network.

• Firewall: Blocks unauthorized intrusions, malicious hackers and other hostile access attempts from both incoming and outgoing connections, with fully managed, automatically updated and customized firewall rules.
• Parental Controls: A secure, easy-to-use content-filtering program that allows parents to prevent their children from accessing Web sites parents decide are inappropriate for their children and also manage the use of online applications and the amount of time children spend online.

Verizon Online Backup & Sharing can preserve vital files such as financial records, music files or irreplaceable digital photos and videos of family and friends.  In the case of accidental damage, hard drive crashes, natural disasters or theft, VOBS users can have peace of mind knowing their digital treasures are protected remotely and accessible from anywhere.  In addition, VOBS users can conveniently share documents or photos with friends, family or business associates.

Earlier this year, Verizon began offering new VOBS customers five times the storage space for the same price.

Verizon customers signing up for bundles of Internet, TV and voice service are eligible for a $2-a-month discount when they combine VISS and VOBS with their bundles.  For $8.99 a month, customers will get the highly rated online security software coverage for up to three PCs, laptops or netbooks and up to 25 gigabytes of online backup and sharing storage space.  New customers will receive the VISS and VOBS free for 30 days. 

Further information about the current Verizon offers and such essential services as VISS and VOBS is available at www.verizon.com.

VISS and VOBS subscribers do not have to be Verizon Internet customers to sign up for these valuable services.  Visit www.verizon.net/shop for more information.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 87 million customers nationwide.  Verizon's Wireline operations provide converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network.  Wireline also includes Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world.  A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 235,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion.  For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

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