Media Alert: New Year, New Computer Security Threats: Microsoft Experts Warn Consumers of Anticipated Online Threats for 2008: Security experts offer tips and advice, and break down top online threats to consumers for the new year.

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Media Alert: New Year, New Computer Security Threats: Microsoft Experts Warn Consumers of Anticipated Online Threats for 2008

Security experts offer tips and advice, and break down top online threats to consumers for the new year.

REDMOND, Wash. — Jan. 3, 2008

Why:

Microsoft Corp. experts predict that in 2008 criminals will continue to use social engineering tactics in fresh and devious ways to trick the everyday computer user. Social engineering refers to the tactics criminals use to manipulate people into taking action online that enables criminals to steal their money or personal information.

What:

Through research and the analysis of trends in online criminal activity, Microsoft has identified three fraudulent tactics that people should be most aware of in 2008. As a part of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to help people stay safe online, the company can also provide tips and insider information on ways to have a safer and more private computing experience. Microsoft experts on consumer security will be prepared to discuss these issues:

•	The three threats people are most likely to encounter online in 2008
•	How people can better secure their PCs and personal information in the new year
•	Social engineering and factors that make it a growing threat for computer users
•	Resources available to help consumers evaluate potential threats and seek protective technology

Who:

•	Adrienne Hall, senior director of Trustworthy Computing, Microsoft. Hall is an expert in the field of Internet security for consumers and is director of the Trustworthy Computing Group at Microsoft. Trustworthy Computing is a tenet focused on secure, private and reliable computing experiences for everyone.
•	Tim McDowd, group product manager, Microsoft. McDowd is group product manager for the Trustworthy Computing group at Microsoft and is responsible for driving the company’s consumer security and safety guidance.

When:

Interviews are now available Jan. 3 and 4, 2008. Other times in January are available upon request. Contact Margeau Lebeau, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, (425) 638-7120; or Rapid Response Team, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, (503) 443-7070.

Note to editors: If you are interested in viewing additional information on Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft Web page at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass on Microsoft’s corporate information pages. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may since have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.mspx.

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