"Cybercrime is a growing problem that negatively impacts everybody," said Dave DeWalt, McAfee president and chief executive officer. "While a lot has been done to combat cybercrime over the past decade, criminals still have the upper hand. The chances of getting caught for knocking off a convenience store are several times larger than robbing an online bank. This must change."

To ensure that McAfee's initiative is sustainable and fully benefits from the work that has preceded it, McAfee is creating the McAfee Initiative to Fight Cybercrime Advisory Council. This council will let McAfee harness the insights and energy of leaders who have already made a difference in this critical area. This global group of independent experts will be chaired by former White House Cybersecurity Adviser Howard A. Schmidt. Professors Ian Brown of Oxford University and Lillian Edwards of Sheffield University have agreed to join the council as well, as has Parry Aftab, founder and manager of WiredSafety, the world's largest and oldest cybersafety help group.

"While cybercrime is becoming more organized, there have been solid, positive strides made," said Schmidt. "McAfee is bringing together people who are knowledgeable about cybercrime and can help make a difference in this global, sophisticated problem."

In addition to forming the Advisory Council, McAfee is also announcing a new McAfee Initiative to Fight Cybercrime Grants program and Cybercrime Response Unit.