Ad link to McAfee labels BitDefender as virus
Ad link to McAfee labels BitDefender as virus
BitDefender antivirus software is called a "virus" in an advertisement on Google.com. The ad copy reads "Remove Bitdefender virus. Clean your PC if already infected" and links to the mcafee.com website, more specifically, to a page that advertises McAfee antivirus software. The sponsored link appears when a search for "BitDefender" is performed on google.com.
"This is clearly no technical error, unlike the recent Griffiths case. It is false advertising and libel, commited with intent and purpose. We have not even begun to calculate the impact this incident has on the good name of our products and company, but it must be significant, since the libelous ad uses the name of an otherwise reputable company." declared Bogdan Irina, BitDefender Sales and Marketing Director.
Recently this year McAfee misidentified an internet setup program used by ISPs in more than twenty countries as a Trojan. The program's author, Mark Griffiths, has stated that he was considering legal action.
"We've had a great year in Europe, grabbing second place in retail software sales in France, a spot that was traditionally occupied by McAfee, so I suspect the opening of our new US offices may have pushed our competitors over the edge of fair play, and into shady business practices," Irina concluded.
McAfee officials were not immediately available for comments.
About BitDefender®
BitDefender is the creator of one of the industry's fastest and most effective lines of internationally certified security software. Since its inception in 2001, BitDefender has continued to raise the bar and set new standards in proactive threat prevention. Every day, BitDefender protects tens of millions of home and corporate users across the globe - giving them the peace of mind of knowing that their digital experiences will be secure. BitDefender solutions are distributed by a global network of value-added distribution and reseller partners in more than 100 countries worldwide. More information about BitDefender and its products are available at the company’s security solutions press room. Additionally, BitDefender’s www.malwarecity.com provides background and the latest updates on security threats helping users stay informed in the everyday battle against malware.