Authenex Introduces HDLock -- Could Prevent Millions in Stolen Data Losses; A-Key Encryption Locks PC and Notebook Hard Drives Against Unauthorized Access.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

RSA Conference 2004

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 23, 2004

Authenex, a leading provider of affordable and strong authenticated e-security applications, today announced the release of Authenex HDLock(TM). HDLock, featuring the Authenex A-Key(TM) USB token, affordably secures PCs and notebooks from unauthorized access. HDLock employs a unique method of strong (two-factor) authentication that does not require PKI, and 128-bit AES hard drive encryption. Encryption of the hard drive contents is particularly important given the recent rise in notebook thefts, and the incalculable damage and expense that can result from the loss of data on a single notebook or desktop computer.

The theft of a laptop results in an average financial loss of $89,000; only a small percentage of the sum actually relates to the hardware cost. Source: 2002 Computer Security Institute/FBI Computer Crime & Security Survey.

"Hardware is replaceable, but data loss causes real problems -- especially if that data includes social security numbers, business financials, credit card numbers or client account information, not to mention passwords and digital credentials," said Henry Hon, executive vice president of Authenex. "While most companies concentrate their security spending at the corporate network level," continued Hon, "they are neglecting to secure the end points, the notebooks and the desktops, where even more sensitive confidential information can reside."

Much like using a bankcard and PIN number at an ATM, Authenex HDLock uses a two-factor authentication login process that confirms that the person requesting access to the computer is in fact who they claim to be. This is accomplished by requiring the use of a physical A-Key token in combination with a password. The Authenex two-factor authentication system is exponentially more secure than password-only (single-factor) authenticated systems, and does not require the added expense and administration of a digital certificate. Unlike other hard disk protection solutions that offer "additional" two-factor security, the A-Key hardware token is an integral part of HDLock rather than an add-on, third-party token.

Once logged on to the computer, HDLock users work without interruption. All encryption and decryption processes occur on the fly -- and are transparent to the end user. Upon shut down or hibernation, the encrypted contents of the hard drive become inaccessible to anyone but the owner of the unique A-Key and password with which the drive was encrypted -- even if the hard drive is removed from the computer. The only way to unlock and view the hard drive data is for the HDLock user to once again login using their A-Key and password.

HDLock is engineered to meet the stringent security requirements of government and industry, but is still priced well within reach of any PC user. With losses in the hundreds of millions each year from lost or stolen notebooks, HDLock offers an affordable and practical security solution. The Authenex HDLock is available today through Authenex and is priced at $79.95 per user -- sold in quantities of 10. This includes software and A-Key tokens. Additional discounts may be available with quantity purchases.

Benefits at a glance:

-- Protects Against Identity Theft Using Powerful 128-Bit

AES-based Encryption and Strong (Two-Factor) Authentication to

Protect Data

-- Secures Contents of the PC Hard Drive

-- Encryption is Transparent to User and Has No Noticeable

Computational Overhead 

-- Optional Recovery Procedure for Lost A-Keys and Passwords

-- Same A-Key Works With Authenex Suite of Applications

HDLock includes a simple registration and recovery option in the event a user loses their A-Key or password. If a registered user loses or forgets their A-Key, they may login to the support section of the Authenex website to receive a secure one-time password. This password can then be used to login to the computer until the next time the A-Key is used.

The same A-Key USB token used for HDLock is also compatible with the entire suite of Authenex strong authenticated applications -- including ASAS(TM) Strong (Two-Factor) Authentication System, AOne(TM) Strong Web Access Control, ACert(TM) Digital Certificate Storage and ASafe(TM) Secure File Exchange.

About Authenex

Authenex has developed the most affordable, secure and easy-to-use platform for strong (two-factor) authenticated e-security applications -- making it possible for enterprises and PC-users to afford and deploy the highest standards in network security. The Authenex suite of applications includes Strong Authentication for VPN, LAN and Web, Strong (Web) Access Control, End Point (File and Hard-Drive) Encryption, Secure File Exchange, and an All-in-One Security Suite, as well as Certificate Storage. Each leverages the chip-based A-Key USB token -- providing simplified management and use.

For more information, call 1-877-AUTHENEX, or visit http://www.authenex.com.

Authenex, A-Key, ASAS, AOne, SAC, HDLock, ASafe, ACert, A-Remote and associated logos are registered or unregistered trademarks of Authenex, Inc. All other registered and unregistered trademarks in this document are the sole property of their respective owners.