Qwest Customer Internet Protection Program Increases Security For Broadband Customers, Combats Spread Of Viruses And Malware

DENVER.- Qwest Communications International Inc. (NYSE: Q) today announced a program designed to help curtail the spread of viruses and malicious software (malware) on the Internet and to assist customers whose computers are infected with viruses or malware.

The Qwest(R) Customer Internet Protection Program (CIPP) notifies Qwest Broadband customers about viruses and malware that may be on their computers, informs them of safe Internet security practices and helps them clean viruses and malware from their computers. The CIPP is part of Qwest’s ongoing commitment to make the Internet safer for customers and is available to residential and small-business Qwest Broadband ADSL* customers at no additional charge.

“Internet security is a top priority for Internet users and for Qwest,” said Melodi Gates, Qwest director of risk management and chief information security officer. “Most people don’t even know when their computers become infected, so Qwest’s goal is not only to help customers get rid of the infections, but also to make sure customers are armed with information to maintain strong levels of Internet security going forward.”

The proliferation of cyber crime continues to require individuals, businesses and even government agencies to take action against ever-changing methods of attack. Because viruses and malware can cause problems not only for individual Qwest Broadband customers, but also for the online community, Qwest proactively monitors its network to detect viruses or malware. When one of these is discovered, the Qwest Customer Internet Protection Program notifies the specific customer of the infection; gives the customer information on how to remove the infection; educates the customer on good Internet security practices; and provides the customer with additional resources, including downloadable or online anti-virus software.

The Qwest CIPP only acts on malicious network traffic on the public Internet; the program does not scan or otherwise monitor content on customers’ computers.

Qwest Broadband customers have responded positively to the CIPP. In fact, since the program began, more than three-quarters of infected customers who were surveyed said they appreciated the CIPP and Qwest’s efforts to help them get rid of viruses and malware on their computers.

Aside from the Qwest CIPP, Internet users can do a few easy things to stay protected online. Customers should do the following:

* Run anti-virus software on every computer; make sure the software and virus signatures are up to date.
* Periodically run anti-spyware software on all computers.
* Make sure there’s an up-to-date firewall operating on each computer and on broadband Internet modems.
* Ensure computers run a supported operating system and have the latest operating system and application patches installed.
* Use passwords and strong encryption on wireless (WiFi) access points to ensure networks are secure.
* Install Windows Live OneCare(R) from Qwest: The all-in-one security and performance service for customers’ computers gives customers one suite of services to help protect and maintain their computers, and offers comprehensive anti-virus, anti-spyware and computer health and optimization features
* Visit www.incredibleinternet.com for resources on how to have safer online experiences and to learn more about identity theft prevention and keeping children safer on the Internet.

*ADSL: Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. Refers to Qwest’s standard broadband service for residential and small-business customers, as opposed to Qwest’s VDSL, or Very High-Speed DSL, service.