ESET Launches Flagship NOD32 Antivirus 8 and Smart Security 8

New Products Include Botnet Protection Combined with Enhanced Exploit Blocker

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Sep 30, 2014, 01:00 ET

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- ESET®, the global leader in proactive digital protection, today announced the newest versions of its flagship security software products: ESET NOD32® Antivirus 8 and ESET Smart Security® 8. The latest versions include Botnet Protection and Enhanced Exploit Blocker that protect against Java-based attacks, while offering anti-phishing, social media scanning capabilities and a completely redesigned, interactive educational experience.

"Combined with ESET's award winning anti-malware protection, these new features give ESET NOD32 Antivirus and ESET Smart Security users an enhanced level of security, whether they are checking email, surfing the web or monitoring their bank balance online," said Andrew Lee, CEO of ESET North America. "Understanding that protection starts with the user, we are proud to announce that we have improved our cybersecurity education, making it an interactive, game-like experience for individuals and families, something only ESET customers enjoy."

According to a 2013 Cisco study, the primary cause in 91 percent of all cyber-attacks were exploits in Java-based applications. Both ESET NOD32 Antivirus 8 and ESET Smart Security 8 come with Enhanced Exploit Blocker, providing users with protection against these exploits.

A new Botnet Protection feature is introduced in ESET Smart Security 8, which protects a user's computer from being taken over by a remote attacker and used as part of a network of infected computers for malicious purposes. A 2014 Verizon Data Breach Investigation Report shows Botnet activity was the largest single category of crimeware activity reported in 2013, accounting for 86 percent of attacks.

ESET Smart Security 8 identifies irregular network communications patterns caused by Botnets, such as Operation Windigo, which ESET Research Labs discovered and reported on this past spring. According to ESET analysis, more than 25,000 servers have been affected over the last two years due to the Windigo attack. Infected servers were used to redirect half of a million web visitors to malicious content on a daily basis during that period, and the attacker was able to send more than 35 million spam messages per day. ESET Smart Security 8 also includes existing key features such as anti-theft capabilities, parental controls and personal firewalls.

Understanding that true cybersecurity requires a combination of software and educated users, ESET also improved the complimentary educational materials included with all of the company's products. As part of ESET NOD32 Antivirus and ESET Smart Security 8, users will enjoy a unique, interactive game that teaches smart cyber tips, while role-playing as a cybersecurity superhero protecting his/her city's citizens against cybercrime.

ESET's solutions are known for their multi-layered protection and a low system footprint that offers the perfect balance between performance and protection, and hold the record for the most consecutive VB100 awards by any vendor. ESET NOD32 Antivirus 8 is available at a starting price of $39.95 and ESET Smart Security 8 is available starting at $59.95. Both products are available on www.eset.com, as well as via ESET's partner re-seller network, retail channels and the Windows Store.

For more information on ESET NOD32 Antivirus and ESET Smart Security 8, please visit: http://www.eset.com/us/home/products/antivirus and http://www.eset.com/us/home/products/smart-security/.

About ESET
Since 1987, ESET® has been developing record award-winning security software that now helps over 100 million users to Enjoy Safer Technology. Its broad security product portfolio covers all popular platforms and provides businesses and consumers around the world with the perfect balance of performance and proactive protection. The company has a global sales network covering 180 countries, and regional offices in Bratislava, San Diego, Singapore and Buenos Aires. For more information visit www.eset.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.