BitTorrent adds Ability to Scan Torrent Files for Malware Using BitDefender’s Technology
BitTorrent has partnered with Internet security software provider BitDefender to help prevent BitTorrent users from inadvertently downloading malware when downloading media files from the Internet.
BitTorrent is the most frequently used P2P application globally, according to the 6th Edition of Application Usage and Risk Report from Palo Alto Networks. When these applications go unmonitored, they do pose certain business and security risks such as introduction of malware leading to data loss, downtime and the possibility of direct financial losses.
The Virus Guard app, powered by BitDefender, scans all torrent files to help protect against malware. Available in the new BitTorrent App Studio, Virus Guard operates as a standalone security app that’s incorporated into the BitTorrent and µTorrent clients to scan downloads once they’re completed.
The Catch – If malware is detected, the app flags the offending torrent and prompts users to sign up for a free trial of BitDefender’s security suite and remove the threat or the user can rescan their computer system using their existing antivirus solution. BitDefender’s Internet Security Suite Products range from $49.95 Per year for up to 3 PCs, to $79.95 for its “Total Security 2011” solution.
“BitTorrent is a powerful and increasingly popular way for users to exchange content they value. Its increasing popularity has made third-party hosting sites a target for malware authors to try to infect users’ systems. By partnering with BitTorrent, we’re able to protect users proactively from malware and other e-threats before they are able to infect users’ computers,” said Peter Laakkonen, BitDefender’s general manager of OEM and technology licensing.
While adding a layer of protection to BitTorrent is a good step, users actively downloading files from many untrusted sources will still be far from safe. In the first half of 2010, Sophos reported an average of 60,000 new malware samples every day, about 1 every 1.4 seconds. In August, McAfee released its ‘McAfee Threats Report: Second Quarter 2010’ threat analysis report, showing that malware at an all-time high with no signs of slowing.