AMSTERDAM, February 1, 2011- AVG Technologies, developers of the world’s most popular free anti-virus software, announced today that it has teamed up with Netlog to launch a co-branded Security Center within the popular European social network now available at www.netlog.com/go/helpdesk/security/. The Security Center powered by AVG, will inform and educate users about Internet security, provide tips and help users protect themselves from malware, spyware and other attacks by cybercriminals while they surf online. Additionally, all links within Netlog will be automatically scanned by AVG LinkScanner, warning users to refrain from opening a link when a threat is detected.
With more than 72 million members and over 150 million visitors per month, Netlog is one of the fastest-growing and most popular social networking sites amongst European youth between the ages of 18 and 25. The Security Center will be initially rolled out to 24 million Netlog users in the top six countries of the Netlog user base, which are Belgium, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Romania and Turkey. As part of the educational initiative, Netlog users will also be able to download AVG Free and Paid products at a discounted price while receiving bonus Netlog credits at en.netlog.com/go/downloads/. Users can also visit a dedicated AVG page to learn more about the company and apply exclusive AVG monster ‘brand skins’ to their own page at www.netlog.com/internetsecurity/.
“AVG is delighted to work with Netlog on this strategic initiative. Social media has become the heartbeat of our society and as such, it is particularly vulnerable to the criminal elements,” said Rocco Donnino, senior vice president of Global Strategic Alliances, AVG Technologies. “Netlog is taking incredible measures to create a safe and secure environment for their members, thus it’s imperative that Netlog users have the most up-to-date security software and information available so that they stay protected while surfing online.”
“A significant amount of Netlog users are aged 13 to 20. This age group tends to be relatively more vulnerable to online threats, which is why we attach a great deal of importance to online security. Other than guaranteeing the safest possible experience on our own site, we can now offer our users a way to protect themselves wherever they go on the web, thanks to our partnership with AVG,” said Lorenz Bogaert, CEO of Massive Media.
The agreement is part of the AVG’s Global Strategic Alliances (GSA) group and “Trust Alliance” program focused on development, licensing initiatives and strategic partnerships in security, social media and the online community.