AVG Creates Online Security Audit For SMBs

If you’re in a huge rush (or the cynical type), we’ll cut to the chase by acknowledging now that the main message of something new from AVG is likely to be "use AVG products."  But past that, the AVG Online Security Audit is a multi-part survey that aims to help small and medium-sized businesses keep themselves safe.

The audit tackles subjects like whether employees use their own laptops, whether machines are protected by antivirus software, and what sorts of policies are in place.  Then, so long as you agree to supply AVG with an email address, you’ll be mailed a report identifying problems and making recommendations.

That could prove useful.  Robert Gorby, AVG’s Global Head of Small Business Propositions, said in a statement, "Our Online Security Audit is a major step forward in our battle against corporate cybercrime."

Then Gorby continued, "In line with our bid to help small businesses, we’ve also highlighted five doorways through which cybercriminals can access company data."

Social networks and "community bad spirits" represent the first doorway.  Next, small business owners should look out for instant messaging and spam chat.

Insider threats are another potential issue, and finally, AVG wants everyone to be safe when dealing with random employees’ laptops and memory sticks that haven’t been kept secure.