Symantec and Internet Education Foundation Launch Consumer-Focused Wireless Security Initiative

Symantec and Internet Education Foundation Launch Consumer-Focused Wireless Security Initiative

Symantec Corp. (Nasdaq: SYMC) and the Internet Education Foundation (IEF), through its GetNetWise coalition, today announced the Wireless Security Initiative (WSI), a joint educational campaign and partnership to inform and protect consumers and small businesses against wireless security threats and vulnerabilities. Symantec and the IEF introduced the first phase of their campaign that will focus on issues related to wireless network and mobile device security. The WSI’s objective will focus on reaching the at least 56 million “wireless ready” users – the number of Americans who say they have used a Wi-Fi enabled laptop or cell phone to access the World Wide Web wirelessly, according to a Pew Internet & American Life report.

Elements of the Wireless Security Initiative will include online educational modules on wireless home networking and public Wi-Fi use, followed by modules on securing smart phones, PDAs, and other handheld mobile devices commonly used for personal and business purposes. The modules will feature recommended security tips, instructional Flash animation tutorials, informative podcasts, and useful security-focused technology solutions. The first module on Wi-Fi security is available at www.GetWirelessSecure.org and will be mirrored on the GetNetWise consumer safety Web site www.GetNetWise.org.

“We are at an exciting juncture in the development of the wireless Internet,” said Congressman Mike Honda, Chair, Wireless Task Force, Congressional Internet Caucus, who will participate in the launch event. “Sales of laptops and portable devices continue to skyrocket as more and more Americans demand mobile Internet access, but with this increased usage come added security risks. I commend the GetNetWise Coalition and Symantec Corporation for launching an educational campaign that will empower consumers to take simple and common sense precautions to protect the integrity of their wireless devices.”

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