Optus customers strap yourselves in - internet security has never been this safe and easy!

Optus announced today that it had unleashed a free online security package to broadband customers.

The Optus Internet Security Suite offers customers with an Optus Broadband connection a free suite of online security services including Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Firewall, Anti-Spam and Parental Control - giving them speed plus safety.

Michael Smith, Group Marketing Director, Optus Consumer said the Optus Internet Security Suite was yet another innovative offering for Optus customers.

"Optus has a history of offering innovative solutions that meet the demands of our consumer and business customers - and this is another step in that direction.

"The combination of broadband with the free Optus Internet Security Suite is like 'yes' Time for our mobile customers - both offer our customers something extra at no additional cost.

"We have created a one-stop-shop for customers who want to enjoy the lightning-fast speeds of Optus Broadband with peace of mind that their connection is safe and secure against viruses, hackers and other internet nasties. The best news is, it's free," Mr Smith said.

From today until May 2008, the Optus Internet Security Suite will be free to Optus Broadband customers for the first 12 months.

"Optus customer research highlighted that eight out of 10 customers believed a complete security solution was important to them. This offering helps protect PCs, personal information and most importantly, families.

"Parental Control within the Optus Internet Security Suite is designed to block access to unsuitable material for children using simple categories (such as violence or gambling), and there is the ability to set up a special password to limit internet access.

"We've also made it simple for customers to download and install the suite, with a maintenance-free, easy-to-use installation. This includes automatic virus protection updates so customers will have protection from the latest threats," Mr Smith said.

The Optus Internet Security Suite includes:

• Anti-Virus: protects computers from viruses, worms and Trojan attacks via the internet, USB drives and CD ROMs.
• Anti-Spyware: removes spying software that attempts to collect personal information from a customer's computer.
• Firewall: increases privacy and protects against potential identity theft and internet fraud.
• Anti-Spam: sorts junk emails and important emails, placing unwanted messages in a special folder where they can be reviewed or deleted.
• Parental Control: monitors and limits the material that can be accessed by children, as well as the times they can access the internet.

Optus has partnered with internet security company F-Secure to offer customers this complete security solution.

Jari Heinonen, Vice President for F-Secure Corporation, APAC Region, said he was looking forward to helping Optus customers obtain greater internet security through the Optus Internet Security Suite.

"The Optus Internet Security Suite uniquely combines innovative technology and powerful security features in an easy to use installation - developed especially with customers in mind," Mr Heinonen said.

Optus customers and their families can safely surf the internet with greater confidence that no worm, hacker or virus will enter their home or business on Optus' watch.

Note to Editor

• As an introductory offer, until May 2008, the Optus Internet Security Suite will be free to all Optus Broadband customers for the first 12 months.
• To get the 12 months free offer, eligible Optus Broadband customers must obtain the security suite subscription number by 31 May 2008. After 12 months a $7 monthly fee may apply. Must meet minimum PC-compatible system requirements. Software will un-install existing security packages and utilise customers' data allowance for updates.
• Optus Internet Security Suite will be available to Optus Cable customers from 24 May, 2007, to Optus DSL Direct customers from 5 June 2007, and DSL customers from 15 June 2007. Optus Dial-up customers will not be able to subscribe until late 2007.
• For further information go to www.optus.com.au/securitysuite.

Media contact:
Melissa Clare
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 9021