Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) announced Tuesday that it is offering free anti-malware software to users if they are using infected devices. Security software companies F-Secure and Trend Micro are partnering with the social networking giant to offer the free service. Facebook will suggest the use of the companies’ software after analyzing the type of malware threat user device has.
“Our goal is to make it easier for people to find and use the right technology to better protect their devices,” the social networker said.
Not for permanent use
When the users login to their Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) account, a pop up will appear with the products available. Once the user hits the download tab, the software will download, install and start to run. The Facebook home page of the user will show the notification and after resolving the threat, the software will uninstall automatically. Users will have the option to continue using the service, but the notification will pop up even if the download has been declined.
Users cannot permanently save the anti-malware software in their devices; nor can they use it for regular cleaning of the system. However, the software offers a feasible solution when devices are infected. Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) did not provide any details about the type of devices compatible with the software and/or malware that can be removed.
A wise step by Facebook
Chetan Gowda, software engineer at Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB), said that it is vital to keep users safe, and the company is thrilled to add the strength of F-secure anti-virus technology to the existing system to wither away malware.
Arto Saari, product manager at F-Secure, said, “Facebook’s dramatic global growth has significantly changed how people interact with their friends and family.” Saari added that Facebook’s popularity has attracted online hackers, which is why F-secure is happy to partner with the social networker to prevent cyber criminals from taking advantage of Facebook’s user base for malicious ends.
Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) has taken a wise step towards securing devices, which can be compromised due to links sent from a friend’s account controlled by malware.
