Security software maker ESET has rolled out new Internet security products for home users, becoming one of the first to include specific Webcam protection.
In June this year, a photo of Facebook Founder Mark Zuckerberg, taken when he was celebrating his growing user base on Instagram, sparked massive interest. An eagle-eyed Twitter user noticed that, in the background, one of the most powerful men in tech had his laptop camera and microphone covered in tape. Why? Because even a man like Zuckerberg is not immune to security breaches.
With a new line of products rolled out last week, security software company ESET has emphasised the need for privacy while operating PCs and laptops. ESET Webcam Protection, available with ESET Smart Security Premium and ESET Internet Security, regulates access to the camera so users are fully protected. They will be able to see and block or allow processes and applications, as well as turning off the computer’s camera so processes won’t be able to access it.
People who are not billionaire or CEOs are not without risk. The threat of people scanning the internet for accessible webcams results from a range of motives, from voyeurism to extortion. This has been one of the most popular types of malware on every operating system for a while.
These threats are addressed directly in ESET’s premium line of security solutions for home users launched in South Africa last week. It includes ESET Smart Security Premium, built upon its award-winning NOD32 technology that offers the best mix of detection, speed, and usability.
The new ESET product portfolio for home users has many proven features, such as Banking & Payment Protection, Antispyware, Anti-Phishing, Exploit Blocker, advanced Personal Firewall, and the ESET LiveGrid Reputation System.
“As internet threats get more diverse, users need more complex internet security features based on individual preferences,” says Steve Flynn, an ESET director. “Our new product portfolio fully reflects this trend.”
Webcam Protection is a feature that controls processes and applications that access computer connected web cameras and displays notifications when unwanted applications try to access the camera.
Home Network Protection enables users to test home routers vulnerabilities, such as weak passwords or out-of-date firmware, and offers them options for remediation. It also provides an easy-to-access list of connected devices, with devices categorised by type and shows who’s connected. This helps users see how safe their home networks are.
ESET Password Manager employs AES‑256 encryption – the world’s leading standard – to store and pre-fill all users‘ passwords. It also generates and stores extra-strong new passwords each time the user needs one.
Script-Based Attack Protection detects attacks by malicious scripts that try to exploit Windows PowerShell. It also detects malicious JavaScript that can attack via the browser; all major browsers are supported.
ESET Secure Data protects against data theft in the event of USB-key or laptop loss, and allows for secure collaboration and data sharing.
* Visit www.eset.com to learn more about ESET flagship products and the new ESET Smart Security Premium.
