Tag Archives: Press

Avast Signs Three-Year Deal with KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada to Secure Network-Connected Endpoints Throughout Canada

Security-first, managed IT services portfolio from AVG Business by Avast provides security protection for KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada’s printer and multifunctional products customers.

MSPWorld, New Orleans, March 27, 2017 – Avast, the leader in digital security products for consumers and businesses, today announced a partnership with KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada, a top manufacturer of printers and multifunctional products (MFPs) in North America, to deliver customized endpoint security solutions and managed IT services to customers throughout Canada. The three-year deal, delivered through the AVG Business by Avast product portfolio, is designed as a proactive, immediate defense against cybercrime.

Through the KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada-Avast partnership, KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada customers also gain the security advantages of Avast’s cloud-based, machine learning threat detection network, among the largest and most advanced in the world that uses next generation technology to detect and block the latest cybersecurity attacks, including malware, phishing, ransomware, breaches in privacy, and more.

A certified Avast Elite Channel Partner, KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada can now customize AVG Business by Avast solutions to meet security needs across its key customer segments – education, government, healthcare and more. The solution set includes a full IT services portfolio with advanced endpoint security services and help desk and technical support. The company also gains access to specialized cloud and remote monitoring and management solutions to build, standardize and automate a managed security program for its extensive dealer network.  Avast is providing technical training and support from its team of dedicated sales engineers, counsel and guidance on go-to-market strategy, and access to marketing resources.

Michel Naud, Director of Direct Operations for KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada, said “With the rapid growth of cyber threats such as ransomware, security has become a top priority for our customers.  By partnering with Avast, not only can we provide immediate and effective security protection, we now have the technology, services and resources to build and scale the IT services side of our business.  This is a clear market advantage for KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada.”

“We welcome KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada as a partner and look forward to helping them deliver tailored security and managed IT services for customers with any type of security need,” said Kevin Chapman, SVP and general manager of Avast’s SMB Business. “Our unique AVG Business by Avast solutions provide advanced security protection for end customers which simplify the delivery and automate the management of security services for our channel partners. Coupled with our comprehensive channel partner program, we’re ensuring our partners can go to market effectively and build a scalable program that fosters high recurring revenue and great margins.”

The AVG Business by Avast portfolio provides solutions to secure, simplify and optimize the IT experience for small and medium-sized businesses worldwide. AVG Business by Avast brings a 25 year-history in security and is the only remote monitoring and management solution provider with its own native security engine. This unique and strong combination of security and managed services experience provides end-customers and channel partners ‘trusted network’ security with solutions that extend across world-class endpoint protection to complete network management.

AVG Business by Avast is dedicated to the channel and has a comprehensive partner program in place to ensure partners can successfully position and sell the products, effectively secure SMBs, and enable profitable channel growth.

To learn more about AVG Business by Avast solutions, stop by Avast’s booth #33 at MSPWorld 2017 or attend the Monday speaking session on ‘Creating a Competitive MSP Pricing Model.’

About Avast
Avast (www.avast.com), the global leader in digital security products for businesses and consumers, protects over 400 million people online. Avast offers products under the Avast and AVG brands that protect people from threats on the internet and the evolving IoT threat landscape. The company’s threat detection network is among the most advanced in the world, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time. Avast digital security products for Mobile, PC or Mac are top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, OPSWAT, ICSA Labs, West Coast Labs and others. Avast is backed by leading global private equity firms CVC Capital Partners and Summit Partners.

About KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada, Ltd.

KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada, Ltd. (www.kyoceradocumentsolutions.ca), with headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario and regional offices / distribution networks across Canada, is a leading provider of computer-connectable document imaging and document management systems, including network-ready digital MFPs/printers, laser printers, colour MFPs/printers, laser facsimiles, and multifunctional and wide format imaging solutions.  In North America, KYOCERA Document Solutions has earned numerous honours for its products’ high performance, reliability and cost efficiency. KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada, Ltd. is a subsidiary of KYOCERA Document Solutions Inc., a core company of KYOCERA Corporation, a world leading developer and manufacturer of advanced ceramics and associated products, including telecommunications equipment, semiconductor packages and electronic components.  KYOCERA Corporation’s consolidated net revenues exceeded $US13.32 billion for the fiscal year ending on March 31, 2016.

Avast Media Contact:
Zoe Kine, Avast PR Director
E-mail: [email protected]
www.avast.com

KYOCERA Document Solutions Canada Media Contact:
Tony Swierkot
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.kyoceradocumentsolutions.ca

AVG Business by Avast announces Northamber as new UK distribution partner

London, UK, 15 March 2017 – Avast, the leader in digital security products for business and consumers, today announced a new partnership with one of the UK’s largest independent distributors, Northamber, for its AVG Business by Avast portfolio of products. Northamber, which has over 5,500 active resellers in its UK network, operates a specialist value-add distribution model which delivers complete ‘connect, store and protect’ solutions supported by specialist sales, marketing, product and technical teams.

The agreement involves the distribution of AVG Business’s small business products to resellers across the UK, underpinned with support for marketing, flexible credit, technical guidance and sales training. The announcement comes as AVG Business by Avast attends Cloud Security Expo, London, 15-16 March, where it will be demonstrating its flagship platforms AVG CloudCare, a SaaS endpoint protection suite, and AVG Managed Workplace, a complete managed IT solution.

With a 36 year heritage, Northamber’s personalized approach helps resellers to get the support they need to be able to sell a complete joined up solution whilst minimising delivery, administration and other associated costs as well as the inconveniences of dealing with multiple distributors. It will be offering AVG Business’ core range of AVG AntiVirus and AVG Internet Security for Business products which complement the endpoint devices offered by Northamber and present an entry level introduction to AVG Business. In addition, Northamber will also be delivering AVG Business’ IT platform, AVG Managed Workplace, for end-to-end remote monitoring and management from a single screen.

Commenting on the new partnership, Erik Preisser, Senior Sales Director, EMEA, at AVG Business by Avast, said: “We are delighted to extend our distributor network in Europe with the strong addition of Northamber in the UK. The UK has always been a priority market for AVG and further to our acquisition by Avast, we are now able to expand our presence and offer our partners even more choice and value. Our goal is to continuously improve our customers’ experience in every aspect. Expanding our network of resellers and partners is a key initiative towards achieving that.”

Alex Phillips, Director of Strategy at Northamber, said, “Northamber is thrilled to introduce AVG to our channel customers as we see a great opportunity for both our reseller and MSP partners to benefit from the range of products that AVG offers. We look forward to working with Avast as their core range of business security products truly complements our existing offerings. For example, for companies delivering their own services to end-users, AVG Managed Workplace is the perfect solution to enhance their proactivity and profitability. Adding AVG to Northamber’s existing security solutions ensures we will always have the right solution for the customer.”

Visit AVG Business at Cloud Security Expo – Stand 1130

AVG Business will be showcasing its full product range and services at Cloud Security Expo. Delegates can also attend the two speaking sessions hosted by AVG Business:

  • Add a million pounds to your valuation – or 10 million: Wednesday, 15 March, 12.15-12.55, at the Security Service Providers and Security Innovation Theatre
  • How to protect your business from – and minimize – cyber threats: Thursday, 16 March, 10.45-11.10 at the Security Service Providers and Security Innovation Theatre

About Avast

Avast (http://www.avast.com), the global leader in digital security products for businesses and consumers, protects over 400 million people online. Offering products under the Avast and AVG brands, Avast protects data, devices, people from threats on the internet and the IoT threat landscape. The company’s threat detection network is among the most advanced in the world, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time. The AVG Business by Avast portfolio provides solutions that secure, simplify and optimize the IT experience for SMBs worldwide.

AVG Business by Avast’s cloud and on-premise security solutions are tailored for the channel and include a remote monitoring and management platform with security built into the core. Channel partners are also supported by Avast’s comprehensive partner program which provides the tools and knowledge to help them sell AVG Business by Avast products.

About Northamber

Northamber is the longest established and one of the largest independent UK only, trade-only distributors in the IT industry, with over 5,500 actively trading resellers.  The AIM listed company celebrated its 36th anniversary. Northamber prides itself on its value-add distribution model, delivering complete ‘connect, store and protect’ solutions supported by specialist sales, marketing, product and technical teams. This approach helps resellers to get the support they need to be able to sell a complete joined up solution whilst minimising delivery, admin and other associated costs and inconveniences of dealing with multiple distributors.

Contact

For Avast:
Stephanie Kane,
Senior PR Director
[email protected]
+44 07817 631 016

For Northamber:
Adam Reynolds
AVG Product Manager
0208 296 7069
[email protected]

Avast Software B.V. completes squeeze-out process of minority shareholders of AVG Technologies B.V.

Prague, Czech Republic / Amsterdam, The Netherlands, March 16, 2017 – Today, Avast Software B.V. (“Avast“) enforced the judgement of the Enterprise Chamber of the Court of Appeal of Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Enterprise Court“) of 14 February 2017.

As announced on February 15, 2017, The Enterprise Court ordered all minority shareholders of AVG Technologies B.V. (“AVG“) to transfer their shares to Avast in exchange for a payment of EUR 22.84 per share in cash, increased by statutory interest to be calculated over the period from October 31, 2016 until the date of transfer of the shares.

Up until March 15, 2017, shareholders of AVG could voluntarily adhere to the judgment of the Enterprise Court by transferring their shares in AVG to Avast. On March 16, 2017, Avast enforced the judgement of the Enterprise Court by transferring the aggregate squeeze-out price of the remaining outstanding shares in AVG to the Consignment Fund of the Ministry of Finance of the Netherlands (the “Consignment Fund“).

As a result of the consignment, all remaining outstanding shares of AVG that were not yet held by Avast were transferred to Avast by operation of law as per 16 March 2017. The former holders of these shares should reach out to the Consignment Fund for payment of the squeeze-out price, which amounts to EUR 23.01 per share in AVG including statutory interest as per 16 March 2017.

Requests for payment of the squeeze-out price and questions with regard to claiming the squeeze-out price should be directed to the Consignment Fund. The contact details of the Consignment Fund are included below.

Ministry of Finance
Attn. The Consignment Fund
PO Box 20201
2500 EE  THE HAGUE
THE NETHERLANDS
E-mail: [email protected]

About Avast
Avast (www.avast.com), the global leader in digital security products for businesses and consumers, protects over 400 million people online. Avast offers products under the Avast and AVG brands that protect people from threats on the internet and the evolving IoT threat landscape. The company’s threat detection network is among the most advanced in the world, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time. Avast digital security products for Mobile, PC or Mac are top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, OPSWAT, ICSA Labs, West Coast Labs and others. Avast is backed by leading global private equity firms CVC Capital Partners and Summit Partners.

Media Contact:
Zoe Kine, Avast PR Director
E-mail: [email protected]
www.avast.com

AVG Business by Avast speaking at Cloud Security Expo 2017

Two presentation sessions will showcase how IT Service Providers can add value and help small and medium businesses minimise the latest cyber threats.

AVG Business by Avast will be presenting during London’s premier annual business technology event, Cloud Security Expo. With Gartner predicting 8.4 billion more devices will join the Internet of Things this year, how small to medium businesses (SMBs) manage the risk to their security as these devices enter the modern workplace presents one of their greatest challenges. At the same time, this is also an opportunity for managed service providers to build new programmes that offer the value and support their clients require and extend new revenue lines for their own business.

PRESENTATION 1: Add a Million pounds to your valuation – or 10 million

  • WHAT: This presentation is about helping IT Services providers understand their value and how to apply their expertise to the managed security opportunity. Hear how to build programmes that drive recurring revenue whether that is 1 million or 10 million pounds.
  • WHO: Patrick McKay, Sales Manager, AVG Business for Avast
  • WHEN: Wednesday, 15th March 12:15 – 12:55
  • WHERE: Security Service Providers and Security Innovation Theatre

PRESENTATION 2: How to protect your business from – and minimize – cyber threats

  • WHAT: This presentation will discuss how small and medium businesses worldwide are under increasing pressure to secure themselves and their customers’ data against a variety of cyber threats. This is compounded by several factors, such as the pace of technology adoption, the trend toward a virtual non-collocated workforce, and compliance with complex new legislation. The latest solutions deployed and managed from the Cloud offer across-the-board protection and low intrusion, but provide limited defence in-depth. Traditional security measures that operate completely inside four walls can still play a role in an overall security plan, but do not provide the necessary coverage. Find out more about these challenges facing small and medium businesses and the emerging product trends designed to solve them.
  • WHO: Greg Mosher, VP of Engineering SMB, AVG Business for Avast
  • WHEN: Thursday, 16th March 10.45-11.10
  • WHERE: Security Service Providers and Security Innovation Theatre

AVG Business by Avast will also be showcasing its flagship products at Stand 1130 at the show. AVG Managed Workplace is the complete managed IT solution which provides unmatched ease of use, security and control of the entire IT infrastructure including all devices, applications and networks from a single pane with end-to-end visibility and remote monitoring and management.

AVG CloudCare is a SaaS endpoint protection suite that enables Managed Service Providers and resellers to remotely support their clients and deploy a robust portfolio of cloud security solutions for multiple clients also through a single pane of glass. It combines an uncomplicated cloud-based IT management capability with AVG’s award-winning AVG AntiVirus and AVG Content Filtering at an affordable price.

AVG and Avast merge together with shareholder payments

Court orders squeeze-out of minority shareholders of AVG Technologies B.V. a subsidiary of Avast Software B.V.

 

Prague, Czech Republic / Amsterdam, The Netherlands, February 15, 2017 – Avast Software B.V. (“Avast“) announces that yesterday the Enterprise Chamber of the Court of Appeal in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Enterprise Court“) entered its judgment in the statutory squeeze-out proceedings initiated by Avast against the minority shareholders of AVG Technologies B.V. (“AVG“).

The Enterprise Court found that EUR 22.84 (being the offer price of USD 25.00 converted into EUR against the exchange rate of October 31, 2016) is the fair squeeze-out price per share in AVG and ordered all minority shareholders of AVG to transfer their shares to Avast in exchange for a payment of EUR 22.84 per share in cash, increased by statutory interest to be calculated over the period from October 31, 2016 until the date of transfer of the shares.

Up until March 15, 2017, shareholders of AVG may voluntarily adhere to the judgment of the Enterprise Court by transferring their shares in AVG to Avast. Shareholders should contact their bank, broker or other financial intermediary to obtain information on how to transfer their shares in AVG to Avast.

On or shortly after March 16, 2017, Avast will enforce the judgment of the Enterprise Court against the remaining shareholders of AVG and pay the aggregate squeeze-out price for the remaining shares in AVG into the consignment fund of the Dutch Ministry of Finance. As of that date, all shares in AVG that have not been transferred to Avast voluntarily will be transferred to Avast by operation of law, and the former holders of these shares will then be entitled to receive payment of the squeeze-out price for each share held as of March 16, 2017 from the consignment fund of the Dutch Ministry of Finance only.

* * *

About Avast

Avast Software (www.avast.com), the global leader in digital security products for businesses and consumers, protects over 400 million people online. Avast offers products under the Avast and AVG brands that protect people from threats on the internet and the evolving IoT threat landscape. The company’s threat detection network is among the most advanced in the world, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time. Avast digital security products for Mobile, PC or Mac are top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, OPSWAT, ICSA Labs, West Coast Labs and others. Avast is backed by leading global private equity firms CVC Capital Partners and Summit Partners.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” “expect,” “are confident that,” “objective,” “projection,” “forecast,” “goal,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “effort,” “target,” “would” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terms. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those suggested or indicated by such forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks and uncertainties related to, among other things: general economic conditions and conditions affecting the industries in which Avast and AVG operate and the squeeze-out proceedings initiated by Avast against the minority shareholders of AVG. Additional information regarding the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements is available in AVG’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including AVG’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and neither Avast nor AVG assumes any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

Contacts

Avast Software
Marina Ziegler
PR & Communications Director
+49-(0)89-3815331-17
[email protected]

###

AVG Launches Powerful New Security and Tune-up Products for 2017

Avast & AVG Technologies combine together to power the latest in flagship security and tune-up products to tackle ransomware, hackers and data thieves, while keeping PCs fast and clean.

 

Prague, Czech Republic, January 10, 2017 – Avast Software, the leader in digital security products for consumers and businesses, today announced the release of the 2017 editions of AVG’s flagship products, AVG AntiVirus FREE, AVG Internet Security and AVG TuneUp. Released less than 120 days after Avast’s acquisition of AVG, these new products combine the best of both Avast’s and AVG’s technology to deliver unrivalled, family-friendly, security protection together with performance enhancements for customers’ PCs, and a clean, simple look and feel.

People using the AVG AntiVirus FREE and AVG Internet Security products will now gain real-time protection against ‘zero-second’ malware thanks to CyberCapture, the company’s proprietary, cloud-based smart file scanner. The latest versions protect users from viruses and malware including ransomware, prevent hacking, secure web and email activities, and ensure that private data stays private. The new user interface makes it very easy to install, navigate and manage all from one place.

A free performance scan using AVG TuneUp has been integrated into the security products to help customers reduce data clutter and keep their PC running smoothly. The full AVG TuneUp product is enhanced with a completely new Software Updater tool which automatically checks and installs the latest updates for the most popular and critical PC applications to eliminate vulnerabilities, fix bugs and add new features.

  • AVG AntiVirus FREE: the rapid increase in the quantity and impact of cyber threats today means protecting every PC is more important than ever before, and free users now benefit from:
    • Computer Protection: real-time protection that updates people’s security automatically and keeps their computers free of viruses, spyware, ransomware, rootkits, Trojans, and other nasty malware. Using advanced artificial intelligence and real-time analysis, it stops even the newest threats from reaching users.
    • Web & Email Protection: blocks unsafe links, downloads, and email attachments.
    • Pushed Priority Updates: ensures immediate protection and was previously only available in the paid edition.
    • New Passive Mode: allows people to personalize their security by allowing them to run two protection products together on their PC.
    • New Online Shield: scans for dangerous websites, links and downloads to keep users safe while they visit their favorite websites.

 

  • AVG Internet Security: for ironclad protection, users can upgrade to AVG Internet Security which additionally stops hackers, protects private data and secures payments.
    • Hacker Protection: Prevents cybercriminals from accessing users’ private files, photos, and passwords.
    • Private Data Protection: Allows users to encrypt and hide their most private photos and files, or permanently shred unwanted material.
    • Payment Protection: Ideal for browsing, shopping, or bank protection. It blocks spam and scams, and helps people avoid fake copycat websites to prevent them from accidentally giving passwords or credit card numbers to the bad guy. Uses Avast Secure DNS to protect online payments made, includes Anti-Spam feature.
    • New Secure DNS feature: verifies a website’s IP address using secure DNS servers to ensure the user is not being redirected to fake websites when shopping or banking online, therefore protecting people against fraud, scams and phishing attacks.

 

  • AVG TuneUp: users can enjoy a range of new and improved features:
    • Automatic Software Updater: AVG TuneUp builds on its core strengths of clearing out unnecessary files and improving PC performance using patented technologies to update most used applications, like Skype, Adobe reader, Flash and Chrome, automatically and silently in the background. AVG customers can choose to rely on the automatic updates, or perform manual checks as desired.
    • Sleep Mode: AVG TuneUp’s patented enhanced Sleep Mode technology improves speed by putting unused applications to ‘sleep’ and only running the necessary ones. This reduces battery and network drain to a minimum so PCs perform like they are just out of the box.

Vince Steckler, Chief Executive Officer at Avast, said, “The combination of AVG and Avast threat detection and analysis capabilities gives us unparalleled insight into cybercrime trends. We tracked, for example, that ransomware alone increased by over 105% between 2015 and 2016 and, based on our data, predict that this is only going to soar. Consumer awareness of security exploits is also at its height given the many ransomware and hacking incidents reported last year. In an age where we are all connecting more of the time, security is becoming a conscious decision and we encourage people to pick the products that are right for their particular needs.”

Download AVG AntiVirus Free, AVG Internet Security and AVG TuneUp at www.avg.com.

About Avast

Avast Software (www.avast.com), the global leader in digital security products for consumers and businesses, protects over 400 million people online. Avast offers products under the Avast and AVG brands, that protect people from threats on the internet with one of the most advanced threat detection networks in the world. Avast digital security products for Mobile, PC or Mac are top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, OPSWAT, ICSA Labs, West Coast Labs and others. Avast is backed by leading global private equity firms CVC Capital Partners and Summit Partners.

 

Avast Closes Acquisition of AVG Technologies

Avast Software, the leader in digital security products for consumers and businesses, today announced it has acquired a majority stake in AVG Technologies after completing the initial offering period.

 

Prague, Czech Republic / Amsterdam, The Netherlands, September 30, 2016Avast Software, the leader in digital security products for consumers and businesses, today announced it has acquired a majority stake in AVG Technologies after completing the initial offering period of its tender offer for all of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG Technologies N.V. (NYSE: AVG). Therefore, they will operate as a single company as of Monday, October 3, 2016.

Vince Steckler is named the chief executive officer of the new Avast, overseeing more than $700M in revenue for 2016 for the newly-combined entity. Avast has transformed into a full service security company with the largest Consumer installed base in the world, and with significant Mobile, SMB and Mobile Enterprise businesses. As of the completion of the initial offering period of the tender offer, AVG’s CEO Gary Kovacs will be departing, but will be available on a consulting basis throughout the transition.

“The combined company now has over 400 million users, more than 40% of the world’s consumer PCs outside of China and the largest consumer security installed base in the world. If they were a country, we would have the 3rd largest population in the world,” said Vince Steckler, chief executive officer. “The US is now our number one market with 58 million users. We truly have global reach and are proud to be the most popular choice for security in the world.”

“We now have the technical breadth to provide superior protection for our customers. For example, our combined threat labs will have teams dedicated to emerging threats affecting consumers. These include social engineering threats, which are commonly used to target IoT devices, and ransomware, which we are fighting with machine learning technology. We believe we are now better equipped than ever to outsmart those who want to do harm to people online.”

By acquiring AVG, the new Avast has stronger protection for its customers. Avast now:

  • Has the largest threat detection network in the world with more than 400 million endpoints that act as sensors, providing information about malware to help detect and neutralize new threats as soon as they appear
  • Has what is probably the world’s largest security-focused cloud and machine learning network comprising over 9,000 servers and supporting 50 million simultaneous connections to provide instantaneous protection to its users
  • Prevents around 1 billion malware attacks per month
  • Blocks more than 500 million malicious URLs per month
  • Blocks around 50 million phishing attacks per month
  • Processes 9 million new executable files every month, 25% of which are malicious, giving Avast even faster and deeper insights in the threat landscape

With the acquisition, Avast expands its SMB business and adds AVG’s strong reseller base, enabling Avast to support more and larger organizations. Avast is also gaining Location Labs and its carrier business, which Avast plans to invest in and expand overseas. Due to the closed infrastructure of mobile operating systems, mobile security and privacy protection technology is stronger when embedded in the carrier infrastructure. The Location Labs technology essentially provides a cloud-based solution to customers, bypassing the inefficiencies and insecurities of running within the mobile operating system.

Avast plans to create more and better products that will defend against the growing number of threats in the market. The company will continue to offer both the AVG and Avast branded products for the foreseeable future and to support all customers and partners for both product lines.

“We want our customers to be reassured that whether you use an AVG product or an Avast product, we will continue to support you. We are nothing without our customers and partners who have helped us get to where we are today,” said Vince Steckler.

As a result of the acquisition, Avast holds approximately 87.3% of AVG’s outstanding shares acquired upon the closing of the initial offering period for the tender offer. Avast also announced that it has commenced a subsequent offering period to provide AVG shareholders who have not yet tendered their shares the opportunity to do so. The subsequent offering period is scheduled to expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on October 14, 2016, unless extended. As described below, Avast plans to voluntarily delist AVG’s shares from the New York Stock Exchange promptly following the subsequent offering period.

The Transaction

On July 29, 2016, Avast Software B.V. and its parent company, Avast Holding B.V., commenced a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG Technologies N.V. at a purchase price of $25.00 per share in cash, without interest and less applicable withholding taxes or other taxes. The initial offering period for the tender offer and withdrawal rights expired at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on September 29, 2016. Based on information provided by the depositary for the offer, a total of 44,543,555 shares, representing approximately 87.3% of the aggregate number of shares outstanding, had been validly tendered and had not been properly withdrawn as of the initial expiration of the offer (excluding 2,809,498 shares, representing approximately 5.5% of the aggregate number of shares outstanding, tendered pursuant to guaranteed delivery procedures that have not yet been delivered in settlement or satisfaction of such guarantee). Avast Software B.V. and Avast Holding B.V. have accepted for payment all shares that were validly tendered and were not properly withdrawn from the offer, and payment for such shares will be made promptly in accordance with the terms of the offer.

Avast Software B.V. and Avast Holding B.V. also announced today the commencement of a subsequent offering period scheduled to expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on October 14, 2016. Avast may extend the subsequent offering period to provide for a minority exit offering period of up to 10 business days to provide AVG shareholders who have not yet tendered their shares the opportunity to do so. All shares validly tendered during the subsequent offering period will be immediately accepted for payment, and tendering holders will thereafter promptly be paid the same form and amount of offer consideration as in the initial offering period. The procedures for tendering shares during the subsequent offering period are the same as those applicable to the initial offering period, except that (i) the guaranteed delivery procedures may not be used during the subsequent offering period and (ii) no withdrawal rights will apply to shares tendered during the subsequent offering period.

As more fully described in the offer to purchase, if the number of shares purchased during the subsequent offering period (including, if applicable, the minority exit offering period), together with the shares purchased during the initial offering period, is equal to at least 95% of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG, Avast expects to acquire the ordinary shares of AVG that were not tendered into the tender offer through the compulsory share acquisition process under Section 2:92a/2:201a of the Dutch Civil Code. If the number of shares purchased during the subsequent offering period (including, if applicable, the minority exit offering period), together with the shares purchased during the initial offering period, is less than 95% of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG, Avast plans to effect an asset sale pursuant to which Avast will acquire substantially all of the assets, and assume substantially all of the liabilities, of AVG promptly following the tender offer. Following the completion of the asset sale, AVG will be liquidated and the remaining minority shareholders of AVG will receive cash distributions with respect to each ordinary share owned by them equal to the per share cash consideration paid in the tender offer less any applicable dividend withholding tax or any other taxes.

As soon as practicable following the completion of the subsequent offering period (including, if applicable, the minority exit offering period), AVG intends to voluntarily delist its shares from the New York Stock Exchange. AVG also intends to deregister its shares under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as amended, the “Exchange Act”) and to suspend its reporting obligations under the Exchange Act, but will only be eligible to do so upon satisfaction of the applicable requirements for deregistration.

AVG has submitted written notice to the New York Stock Exchange of its intent to voluntarily delist its shares from the New York Stock Exchange in connection with the tender offer. AVG intends to file a Form 25, Notification of Removal from Listing and/or Registration under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to delist its shares promptly following the subsequent offering period. Delisting from the NYSE is expected to become effective 10 days after the filing date of the Form 25.

The AVG shares will not be listed or registered on another national securities exchange. Delisting is likely to reduce significantly the liquidity and marketability of any AVG shares that have not been tendered pursuant to the tender offer.

Advisors

Jefferies International Limited is acting as exclusive financial advisor, and White & Case LLP and De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek N.V. are acting as legal advisors to Avast. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as financial advisor to AVG, Bridge Street Securities, LLC is acting as financial advisor to the supervisory board of AVG, and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP and Allen & Overy LLP are acting as legal advisors to AVG.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” “expect,” “are confident that,” “objective,” “projection,” “forecast,” “goal,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “effort,” “target,” “would” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terms. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those suggested or indicated by such forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks and uncertainties related to, among other things: general economic conditions and conditions affecting the industries in which Avast and AVG operate; the uncertainty of regulatory approvals; AVG’s delisting from the New York Stock Exchange and suspension of AVG’s reporting obligations under the Exchange Act and to consummate the transactions and their plans described in this press release; and AVG’s performance and maintenance of important business relationships. Additional information regarding the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements is available in AVG’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including AVG’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and neither Avast nor AVG assumes any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities of AVG. The solicitation and offer to purchase ordinary shares of AVG is being made pursuant to a tender offer statement on Schedule TO, including an Offer to Purchase, a related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents, filed by Avast with the SEC on July 29, 2016 (as subsequently amended, the “Tender Offer Statement”). AVG filed a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with respect to the tender offer with the SEC on July 29, 2016 (as subsequently amended, the “Solicitation/Recommendation Statement”). AVG shareholders are urged to read the Tender Offer Statement and Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, as they may be amended from time to time, as well as any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, carefully and in their entirety because they will contain important information that AVG shareholders should consider before making any decision regarding tendering their securities. The Tender Offer Statement and the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement are available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by AVG will be available free of charge on AVG’s website at investors.avg.com.

Don’t believe everything you read about ‘unsafe’ security products

Online reports about the safety of security products can be very alarming, which is why we want to address those concerns and provide assurance that we take them very seriously.

You may recently have read about the discovery of a vulnerability in a number of online security products, specifically regarding ‘code hooking.’ The issue, when originally found, affected a number of antivirus companies, including AVG.

We took this vulnerability in our products very seriously when we first learned of it in December 2015, and we resolved it within two days. In fact, enSilo, the research company that identified the issue, credited our fast response in an article titled ‘Learning from AVG on Doing it Right’.

The new articles on this topic arose from enSilo’s ‘Captain Hook’ report, which details potential security issues regarding the incorrect implementation of code hooking and injection techniques. There is no reference to AVG in this report, and any media articles mentioning AVG in conjunction with this report are inaccurate.

enSilo has not disclosed any new vulnerability or security issue with our products, which they confirmed when we contacted them. Our previous experience with enSilo indicates they are a responsible company that reports issues to vendors prior to disclosing them publicly.

AVG encourages developers and researchers to report any issues with our products through our proactive bug bounty program. This process allows us to investigate potential issues fully and take the steps to fix or mitigate as necessary without unduly alarming our users.

I would like to thank enSilo for their valued partnership to date in helping us to protect our customers in an ever-changing security landscape.

AVG Reveals Which of the World’s Favorite Apps Cache in on Your Phone—or Don’t

Latest AVG Technologies App Performance and Trend Report ranks newcomers Snapchat, YouTube and Google Maps among the top 10 Android ‘resource hog’ list, while Netflix is listed as ‘most improved’.

Today, AVG® Technologies (NYSE: AVG), the leading provider of software services to secure devices, data and people, revealed that Snapchat, YouTube and Google Maps are the top 3 apps most likely to drain Android device resources. The AVG Android App Performance and Trend Report H1 2016 outlines, for the period of January through April, 2016, which of the most popular apps had the most pronounced effect on battery, storage and data, highlighting that photo, video and location apps likely contribute most to draining device battery life, in particular.

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The H1 2016 report also recognizes ‘most improved’ apps, such as Netflix, previously a top ‘resource hog,’ but which did not make our top 10 charts this time around. Similarly, AppLock, a password protector for smart phones that showed up among the current report’s top 10 battery-draining apps, has improved its performance since this April, indicating that the app’s latest update may have addressed the problem.

In our internal testing of most-used apps’ behaviors, it appears that while Snapchat removes images and videos from conversations, the app’s cache is only partially deleted. We also found that YouTube stores a fair amount of cached files, as much as 270 MB. The remaining apps on AVG’s top 10 lists for H1 comprise mostly similar messaging, video, music and shopping apps—unsurprising inclusions on lists of resource-taxing apps. However, an interesting exception to this pattern is The Weather Channel app, which initiates at start-up (which users likely do not realize), immediately drawing on your network plan.

“Our latest report exposes some quirky app behavior. For instance, I question why a weather app needs to be constantly connected rather than updating on demand,” said Tony Anscombe, senior security evangelist for AVG Technologies. “You could also say that Snapchat’s keeping cached files around undermines its Mission Impossible-esque ‘self-destruct’ approach to messaging. Ultimately, if you have more than a few of these apps or types of apps on your phone or tablet, they could be to blame for those annoyingly regular low battery or low storage notifications.”

The report also highlighted other interesting general app usage trends, including:

  • Today’s average Android smartphone and tablet user has 33 apps installed on their device.
  • The 50 most-used apps include obvious entries, like Android’s own Google Search box or YouTube, but also surprises, such as TripAdvisor, which has increasingly started pushing users from its website to the mobile app.
  • Seven of the top 10 most-used smartphones are 2-4-year-old Samsung Galaxy S phones. Sony Xperia devices make up the remainder of this list.

An all-in-one cleaner and optimizer like AVG CleanerTM for AndroidTM can help keep tabs on the top mobile resource-hogging apps on your devices.

The full report can be downloaded here.

 

Methodology

The AVG App Report was gathered from a sample of aggregated and anonymized data from more than 3 million Android users around the globe. The app data included in this report covers a time period of January 2016 through April 2016 and only includes Google Play applications where AVG observed a minimum sample size of 50,000 usage incidents.

About AVG Technologies

AVG is the leading provider of software services to secure devices, data and people. AVG’s award-winning consumer portfolio includes internet security, performance optimization, location services, data controls and insights, and privacy and identity protection, for mobile devices and desktops. The award-winning AVG Business portfolio, delivered through a global partner network, provides cloud security and remote monitoring and management solutions that protect small and medium businesses around the world. For more information visit www.avg.com.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

 

Media Contacts

Stephanie Kane, Senior PR Director, AVG Technologies

[email protected]

+44 7817 631016

 

Julie Noble, Inner Circle Labs for AVG Technologies

[email protected]

+1 (415) 684-9564

Avast Announces Agreement to Acquire AVG for $1.3B

Two Security Pioneers Unite to Strengthen their Global Leadership in Internet Security— Avast Software, an industry-leading maker of the most trusted security software in the world, and AVG Technologies N.V.

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. and AMSTERDAM, July 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Avast Software, an industry-leading maker of the most trusted security software in the world, and AVG Technologies N.V., (NYSE: AVG), a developer of business, mobile and PC device security software applications, today announced that they have entered into a purchase agreement in which Avast will offer to purchase all of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG for $25.00 per share in cash, for a total consideration of approximately $1.3B. Both companies are industry pioneers founded in the Czech Republic in the late 1980s and early 1990s, that expanded internationally in the 2000s, and now will be combining complementary strengths to position Avast for continued growth in the security industry.

Avast is pursuing this acquisition to gain scale, technological depth and geographical breadth so that the new organization can be in a position to take advantage of emerging growth opportunities in Internet Security as well as organizational efficiencies. The technological depth and geographical reach will help Avast serve customers with more advanced security offerings in the core business and new innovations in emerging markets, such as security for IoT devices.

Combining Avast’s and AVG’s users, the organization will have a network of more than 400 million endpoints, of which 160 million are mobile, that act as de facto sensors, providing information about malware to help detect and neutralize new threats as soon as they appear. This increase in scale will enable Avast to create more technically advanced personal security and privacy products.

This transaction has been unanimously approved by the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Avast. The Management Board and Supervisory Board of AVG approved and support the transaction and recommend the offer for acceptance to the AVG shareholders.

“We are in a rapidly changing industry, and this acquisition gives us the breadth and technological depth to be the security provider of choice for our current and future customers,” said Vince Steckler, chief executive officer of Avast Software. “Combining the strengths of two great tech companies, both founded in the Czech Republicand with a common culture and mission, will put us in a great position to take advantage of the new opportunities ahead, such as security for the enormous growth in IoT.”

“We believe that joining forces with Avast, a private company with significant resources, fully supports our growth objectives and represents the best interests of our stockholders,” said Gary Kovacs, chief executive officer, AVG. “Our new scale will allow us to accelerate investments in growing markets and continue to focus on providing comprehensive and simple-to-use solutions for consumers and businesses alike. As the definition of online security continues to shift from being device-centric, to being concerned with devices, data and people, we believe the combined company, with the strengthened value proposition, will emerge as a leader in this growing market.”

The Transaction

The transaction is structured as an all-cash tender offer for all outstanding ordinary shares of AVG at a price of$25.00 per share in cash.  Avast plans to finance the transaction using cash balances on hand and committed debt financing from third party lenders.  Avast has received a financing commitment of $1.685 billion fromCredit Suisse Securities, Jefferies and UBS Investment Bank. In addition, Avast has contributed $150 million in equity investment to fund the transaction. The proposed transaction is not subject to a financing condition.

The offer price represents a 33% premium over the July 6, 2016 closing price and a premium of 32% over the average volume weighted price per share over the past six months.The contemplated tender offer will be subject to certain shareholder approvals, the receipt of regulatory clearances, the tender of at least 95% of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG or, if AVG shareholders approve the asset sale contemplated in the purchase agreement, the tender of at least 80% of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG, and other customary closing conditions. Additionally, certain shareholders including funds affiliated with TA Associates, who hold approximately 13% of the issued and outstanding shares of AVG, respectively, have committed to support the transaction and tender their shares in the offer.

If at least 95% of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG are acquired in the contemplated tender offer, Avast expects to acquire the ordinary shares of AVG that were not tendered into the tender offer through the compulsory share acquisition process under Section 2:92a/2:201a of the Dutch Civil Code. If AVG’s shareholders approve the asset sale contemplated in the purchase agreement at the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to be convened shortly by AVG and the tender offer is successfully completed with Avast acquiring less than 95% but at least 80% of the outstanding ordinary shares of AVG, then Avast plans to effect an asset sale pursuant to which Avast will acquire substantially all of the assets, and assume substantially all of the liabilities, of AVG promptly following the tender offer. Following the completion of the asset sale, AVG will be liquidated and the remaining minority shareholders of AVG will receive cash distributions with respect to each ordinary share owned by them equal to the per share cash consideration paid in the tender offer less any applicable dividend withholding tax or any other taxes. The offer will be described in more detail in a tender offer statement on Schedule TO to be filed by Avast and a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 to be filed by AVG. The transaction is expected to close sometime between September 15, and October 15, 2016, depending on the timing of regulatory review.

Advisors

Jefferies International Limited is acting as exclusive financial advisor, and White & Case LLP and De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek N.V. are acting as legal advisors, to Avast. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as financial advisor to AVG and Bridge Street Securities, LLC is acting as independent financial advisor to the supervisory board of AVG. Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP and Allen & Overy LLP are acting as legal advisors to AVG.

Avast logo.

About Avast

Avast Software (www.avast.com), maker of the most trusted mobile and PC security in the world, protects 230 million people and businesses with its security applications. In business for over 25 years, Avast is one of the early innovators in the security business, with a portfolio that includes security and privacy products for PC, Mac, Android and iOS, and premium suites and services for business. In addition to being top-ranked by consumers on popular download portals worldwide, Avast is certified by, among others, VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, OPSWAT, ICSA Labs, and West Coast Labs. Avast is backed by CVC Capital Partners, one of the leading global private equity and investment advisory firms.

 AVG Technologies N.V. LOGO.

About AVG (NYSE: AVG)

AVG is a leading provider of software services to secure devices, data and people. AVG’s award-winning consumer portfolio includes internet security, performance optimization, location services, data controls and insights, and privacy and identity protection, for mobile devices and desktops. The award-winning AVG Business portfolio, delivered through a global partner network, provides cloud security and remote monitoring and management (RMM) solutions that protect small and medium businesses around the world. For more information visit www.avg.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking information that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” “expect,” “are confident that,” “objective,” “projection,” “forecast,” “goal,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “effort,” “target,” “would” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terms. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those suggested or indicated by such forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks and uncertainties related to, among other things: general economic conditions and conditions affecting the industries in which Avast and AVG operate; the uncertainty of regulatory approvals; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the contemplated tender offer and consummate the transactions described in this communication; and AVG’s performance and maintenance of important business relationships. Additional information regarding the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements is available in AVG’s SEC filings, including AVG’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and neither Avast nor AVG assumes any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

The tender offer referenced in this communication has not yet commenced. This communication is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any ordinary shares of AVG or any other securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Avast will file with the SEC. The solicitation and offer to purchase ordinary shares of AVG will only be made pursuant to an Offer to Purchase, a related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents. At the time the tender offer is commenced, Avast will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO, including an Offer to Purchase, a related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents, and AVG will file a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9, with the SEC, each with respect to the tender offer. The tender offer statement (including the Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other tender offer documents) and the solicitation/ recommendation statement will contain important information. AVG’s shareholders are urged to read the tender offer statement and Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, as they may be amended from time to time, as well as any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, when they become available, carefully and in their entirety because they will contain important information that holders of AVG’s securities should consider before making any decision regarding tendering their securities. The Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other tender offer documents, as well as the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, will be made available to all holders of ordinary shares of AVG at no expense to them. The tender offer materials and the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by AVG will be available free of charge on AVG’s website at investors.avg.com. In addition to the Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other tender offer documents, as well as the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, AVG files annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any reports or other information filed by AVG at the SEC public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. AVG’s filings with the SEC are also available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

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To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/avast-announces-agreement-to-acquire-avg-for-13b-300295132.html

SOURCE AVG Technologies N.V.

Investor Relations contacts: US: Bonnie McBride, Tel: + 1 415 806 0385, Email: [email protected]