CNET Helps Consumers Protect and Organize their Computers with CNET TechTracker

CNET FINDS ONE-THIRD OF USERS’ SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS TO BE OBSOLETE – LEAVING COMPUTERS VULNERABLE TO SECURITY HOLES AND POOR PERFORMANCE

New Product Scans Computers for New Software Versions, Security Patches, and Application Updates; Organizes Tech Gadget Research, Recommendations, and Wish Lists

http://www.cnet.com/techtracker

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 24 — CNET (www.cnet.com), where people go to discover the latest in tech and consumer electronics, today unveiled CNET TechTracker (www.cnet.com/techtracker), a new offering that will scan users’ PC and Mac computers for out-of-date software. According to more than 50,000 registered CNET users who installed the CNET TechTracker beta application this summer, almost one-third had out-of-date software applications on their computers, leaving their computers vulnerable to various viruses and performance problems.

Available for download at http://www.cnet.com/techtracker, CNET TechTracker directs the user to the latest updates in CNET’s library of more than 100,000 trusted and spyware-free software programs. CNET TechTracker also offers information from CNET’s editorial and user reviews, and ratings so that users will be able to make informed decisions on installing the latest version or update.

“No one has the time to visit all the different software vendors’ sites for new updates and security patches, but in today’s digital world, it’s increasingly important to keep your computer safe and virus-free,” said Joe Gillespie, Executive Vice President, CBS Interactive Technology & News. “From checking email to managing budget spreadsheets, it’s critical for people to stay abreast on the latest software applications and programs which have become an essential part of their daily lives. CNET TechTracker builds on CNET’s commitment to making it easier for people to live with the tech they own.”

CNET TechTracker also includes CNET My Lists (http://www.cnet.com/techtracker/my-lists/), a feature that allows users to organize and save lists of tech gadgets and software. The lists can be used to create and share wish lists, research products, and make product recommendations to the CNET community.

About CNET

CNET (www.cnet.com) is where people go to discover the latest in tech and consumer electronics. Driven by a trusted voice and a passionate community, CNET creates an open environment for people to find and use the best products to fit their lifestyle. The powerful combination of CNET’s award-winning news, lab-tested product reviews, safe and spyware-free downloads, and user-generated content give people information and inspiration to live and thrive in a life gone digital.

About CBS Interactive
CBS Interactive, a division of CBS Corporation, is the best online content network for information and entertainment. With more than 200 million people visiting its properties each month, it is the 8th largest Web property globally and the 5th largest Web property in the U.S. in terms of unique video viewers. Its portfolio of leading brands, which include CNET, CBS.com, CBSSports.com, GameSpot, TV.com, BNET and Last.fm, span popular categories like technology, entertainment, sports, news and business.

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