Deep packet inspection specialist Allot Communications launched a network service designed to block illegal and harmful content distributed online.
WebSafe can be used by both fixed and mobile broadband service providers to block specific URLs blacklisted for illegal content, including child sexual abuse images.
Specifically, WebSafe uses URL filtering technology at the network level, working off blacklists containing specific Web pages that can be automatically or manually updated to the solution, with no network downtime.
WebSafe, with its opt-in/opt-out functionality can receive updates from external sources such as regulatory bodies or law enforcement agencies.
The approach is being advocated by a U.K.-based group called the Internet Watch Foundation, which aims to prevent the distribution of child porn globally. IWF is described as a self-regulatory body. It compiles lists of sites to be blocked and distributes them twice daily. Allot has become a member of the IWF.
“Combating child sexual abuse images on the Internet is a global challenge. The Web sites are dynamic, often hopping hosting provider and country every few days, and the Internet industry’s role in helping to disrupt them is crucial,” said Peter Robbins, CEO of the IWF. “We work with national and international partners and a diverse range of member companies to make [the] Internet a safer place for everyone. This partnership is about stopping networks being abused, whilst protecting Internet users from the results of that abuse.”
Allot delivers the capability as a module within its various products, including the Allot Service Gateway.
“WebSafe is the most recent value-added network service to be offered as part of the Service Gateway portfolio,” noted Andrei Elefant, Allot’s vice president of marketing and product management. “Allot is committed to creating solutions that appeal to both our customers and our customers’ customers. WebSafe fulfills these criteria and allows mobile and fixed operators to stand out from the crowd by providing what their subscribers want – a safer and cleaner Web environment.”
