Following a comprehensive review of third-party offerings, Rabobank selected ThreatMetrix's TrustDefender Client solution that reduces the risk of malware to its business customers, giving people confidence in making online transactions while on the Bank's web site. As a small client component installed on end-user computers, TrustDefender Client eliminates the risk of hidden malware compromising authenticated sessions to steal data, identities or money.

"I'm a strong supporter of the Internet banking channel for our rural clients, many of whom are located in remote parts of Australia and New Zealand," said Alister Bennett, head of product management and development, Rabobank Australia and New Zealand. "We use two-factor authentication with a physical token for our Internet banking customers, which gave us confidence that we were interacting with legitimate clients online. We also wanted to assure our clients' online sessions were protected to a higher degree, which is why we turned to ThreatMetrix."

Many banks worldwide have seen and experienced malware activity. According to estimates from the Aite Group, an independent research and advisory firm, as many as 25 million unique strains of malware were released in 2011 and the annual production of malware is expected to increase to 87 million by the end of 2015.

Any new client who participates in Rabobank's Internet channel receives a two-factor authentication token and a communication on the availability of TrustDefender Client. When a customer logs into Rabobank, they also get a splash screen telling them about malware risks and how TrustDefender Client can help protect them.

"Since we started offering TrustDefender Client as a free download, we've seen client uptake to over 80 percent," said Bennett. "Our clients trust us and look to us for guidance. Many clients have been very thankful of our technical expertise in helping them prevent malware and other cyberattacks."