Comcast has started a trial that will alert its data subscribers when there are viruses and bots on their personal computers.
The trial, which kicked off yesterday in Denver, is part of a new program called “Constant Guard.” Comcast said Constant Guard was the culmination of a multi-year effort to assemble a dedicated team of security professionals to implement security software and create a security Web portal.
“As the nation’s largest residential Internet service provider, our goal is to provide a safe and secure Internet experience for our customers,” said Mitch Bowling, senior vice president and general manager of online services at Comcast. “The Constant Guard Security Program is the result of many years of working to assemble the right people, technologies and resources to help ensure our customers are protected from hackers and bots in real time.”
The free program alerts subscribers when it suspects there’s an infection and then directs them to the Anti-Virus Center to get instructions on how the virus or bot can be removed.
The program takes a three-pronged attack to online threats:
- The Customer Security Assurance (CSA) team of security professionals that proactively contact customers to respond to issues relating to bots, malware and infected PCs, as well as other related security issues.
- Technology and software including: McAfee Internet Security Suite, available at no additional charge to data customers, provides customers with a set of security tools designed to protect against a variety of online threats, including viruses; a free Comcast toolbar that includes spyware detection and removal, a pop-up ad blocker and anti-phishing software; best-in-class technology deployed within the Comcast network and designed to help fight spam, phishing attacks and viruses. Partners include Bizanga, Cloudmark, Goodmail CertifiedEmail and Return Path, as well as the use of blocklists from Spamhaus and TrendMicro.
- Security Channel is a Web portal that includes real-time security alerts, tips, tools and other resources, like Internet safety games, that help educate and protect consumers.
