Response to Aetna Inc Laptop Theft Scandal: Absolute Software Recommends Important Safety and Security Measures to Protect Corporate Laptops and Safeguard Sensitive Data

Business Wire, May 1, 2006

VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- Experts in computer theft recovery and secure asset tracking solutions advise on best practices -- from common sense to high-tech solutions

In response to the recent laptop theft from health insurer Aetna, Absolute Software, ("Absolute") (TSX: ABT), the leading provider of Computer Theft Recovery and Secure Asset Tracking(TM) solutions, has announced important safety and security recommendations to help protect corporate laptops and safeguard sensitive data. Key recommendations range from adopting common-sense measures to leveraging advanced security technology solutions.

Last week, on Wednesday, April 26th, Reuters reported that a laptop had been stolen from an Aetna employee's car. The computer contained personal information on approximately 38,000 members including names, addresses and Social Security numbers. The personal data is from members that are employees of two companies that are Aetna customers.

John Livingston, CEO of Absolute Software said, "Computer loss and theft represents a huge security risk to both individuals and corporations. It's absolutely imperative to safeguard computing assets because of the direct financial implications as well as the liability of exposure and malicious use of the data that the computer holds. A single $1,000 laptop may hold credit card numbers, private client information and years of accumulated knowledge that could cost an organization millions of dollars in business and lawsuits. A few simple steps can mitigate risk and prevent a devastating loss."

Absolute Software's 'top ten' laptop security recommendations follow:

1. Use visual deterrents. A cable lock or other locking mechanism can act as a deterrent to would-be criminals. Although they can be ripped off the plastic exterior of a laptop with a strong tug, they do force some criminals to think twice before taking the risk.

2. Avoid leaving unsecured laptops unattended. Lock them in cupboards, laptop carts or other secure facilities when not in use. If they must be left in a vehicle, they should be covered up or locked in the trunk.

3. Keep laptops inconspicuous. Laptops should always be carried in inconspicuous carrying cases, such as backpacks or tote bags, instead of tell-tale laptop bags.

4. Use 'complex' passwords and change them regularly. Don't use simple passwords that can be guessed easily. Always use a combination of numbers and letters and never leave your password in obvious places on or near the computer. As well, also password-protect your screensaver to avoid unwanted access to your computer if you've stepped away.

5. Leverage anti-virus software, encryption solutions, anti-spyware and firewalls. Prevent unauthorized access and spyware from invading your computer and protect valuable information with data encryption software. Make sure your systems are properly installed and kept up-to-date.

6. Back-up valuable data on a scheduled basis. Data back-up needs to happen as frequently as possible to minimize the risk to organizations in the event of theft or loss. The information or 'knowledge' that is stored on the computer is more valuable than the computer itself.

7. Understand the dangers of pirated software and file sharing. Both piracy and over-deployment of purchased licenses can lead to significant lawsuits or other financial penalties. Not only is it illegal, but pirated software can increase susceptibility to viruses, trojans and other attacks.

8. Stay informed. Continue to educate yourself on the tools and techniques used today by cyber criminals as well as the latest scams and other security risks to company data.

9. Use asset tracking and recovery software. Laptop recovery tools are highly effective, especially those based in the BIOS of computers. They not only recover the hardware, but stop the root cause of internal theft by catching the thieves. And regulatory compliance today requires that companies know now only what is on a computer, but where it is, and who is using it.

10. Invest in advanced data protection. Leverage advanced data protection technology to remotely wipe sensitive information in the event that your computer is lost, stolen or nearing the end of its lifecycle.

For more information on Absolute Software and its range of Computer Theft Recovery and Secure Asset Tracking solutions, please visit www.absolute.com.

About Absolute Software

Absolute(R) Software (TSX: ABT) is the leader in Computer Theft Recovery, Data Protection and Secure Asset Tracking(TM) with approximately 600,000 subscriptions under management. Absolute Software provides organizations the ability to accurately and securely track their computing assets, manage leased computers, ensure software license compliance, deter computer loss, protect data and recover stolen computers. The company has key partnerships with global leaders, including Dell, Lenovo, Gateway, HP, Toshiba, and Fujitsu. For more information about Absolute Software and Computrace, visit www.absolute.com.

Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, plans and timing for the introduction or enhancement of our services and products, and other expectations, intentions and plans contained in this press release that are not historical fact. When used in this press release, the words "plan," "expect," "believe," and similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our current expectations. They are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in technology and general market conditions. In light of the many risks and uncertainties you should understand that we cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements contained in this press release will be realized. (C)2006 Absolute Software Corporation. All rights reserved. Computrace and Absolute are registered trademarks of Absolute Software Corporation. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. Computrace US patents No. 5,715,174, No. 5,764,892, No. 5,802,280, No. 6,244,758, No. 6,269,392, No. 6,300,863, and No. 6,507,914. Canadian patent No. 2,305,370. U.K. patents No. EP793823, and No. GB2338101. German patent No. 695 125 34.6-08. Australian patent No. 699045. The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved of the information contained in this news release.