Yahoo has begun beta testing a new toolbar that will feature a spyware function called Anti-Spy. The new anti-spyware addition will allow users to protect their computers from these types of programs.
Downloadable toolbars have become a hot feature for many web users. Sites like eBay and the major search engines like Yahoo and Google offer these utilities with the intention of giving users the capabilities that the respective sites offer. However, Yahoo’s new beta toolbar is the first major toolbar that manages and protects against spyware.
Anti-Spy gives users a way to identify potentially unwanted software like spyware, then lets them decide whether they want to disable/remove, ignore or keep the files that are found. If the user does delete a suspected file, but later discovers they need it, Anti-Spy will give them ability restore the file or program they removed.
“Our objective is to develop the best services and tools to meet the evolving needs of Internet consumers. Anti-Spy beta is yet another great example of a free service that instantly puts the consumer in control of their Internet experience,” said Julie Herendeen, vice president, network products, Yahoo!. “We are thrilled to build upon our existing consumer resources such as the Yahoo! Security Center, to help users not only find accurate information about online security, but also provide them with the tools and community voice to help them take an active role in protecting themselves online.”
Yahoo’s Anti-Spy beta is powered by PestPatrol, a third party software designed to combat spyware and other malicious programs. The toolbar is available for download to a limited audience at beta.toolbar.yahoo.com.
Other Yahoo Toolbar features include:
— Internet search tools
— Pop-Up Blocker
— Portable bookmarks
— Customizable buttons for quick access to any site on the Web
— Direct links to your personal portfolios, local movie showtimes, news headlines and more.
Murdok | Breaking eBusiness News
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