Online security tools from Verizon

As the nation observes Cyber Security Awareness Month in October, Internet users can take advantage of security tools from Verizon to assess their vulnerability to Internet-based threats and to keep their children safe online.

With industry estimates of more than a million viruses stalking the unprotected computers of Internet users, the need for adequate protection from these and other threats has never been greater. Verizon Security Advisor provides consumers with a fast and simple way of determining their level of risk and follows up with tips and instructions on how to stay out of trouble.

Through a fast and simple three-step process, Castleton said, Verizon Security Advisor provides an instant diagnosis of a PC’s security status and detects whether essential anti-virus, anti-spyware and personal firewall protection is in place. Launched earlier this year, Verizon Security Advisor has nearly 2 million subscribers who further benefit from free monthly security tips and tutorials as part of the award-winning software’s ongoing risk assessment.

Verizon also offers consumers free parental controls and has launched a Parental Control Center offering tips and tools for parents on how to protect their children when they’re online. The Parental Control Center features simple downloading of the parental-control software and tutorials on subjects such as Social Networking and Safe Surfing for Kids. Links are available to Web sites for organizations like WiredSafety, the largest cybersafety organization, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Cyber Tipline.