The service from Scansafe routes a customer’s web traffic through a proxy, monitoring for virus activity in file downloads and malicious Java, Javascript and ActiveX code executed when users visit infected websites or use instant messaging.

At the moment, conventional anti-virus programs are not guaranteed to find viruses caught through web browsers, especially if relevant patches have not been applied.

The threat from unscanned links passed through e-mail or webmail was of particular concern.

If a virus is detected in traffic, users are informed through a customised webpage, and administrators are sent an e-mail. Staff can monitor detection broader patterns by way of reports noting type of infection and sources on a daily or weekly basis.

By John E Dunn at Computer Weekly.

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