Microsoft have just finished distributing an internal Beta 1 escrow build to internal beta testers. “Atlanta” is the code-name for Microsoft’s rehashed GIANT Software Anti-Spyware. In a memo internally, the company looks clear to distribute the software this coming Thursday calling it “new, it’s fresh, and it’s all good”.
Encouraging employees to install the Beta is one of the many ways Microsoft tests Beta products internally. It’s not clear whether the release this Thursday will be a public beta or a private external beta.
Check out our exclusive screenshots below.
Update: Microsoft is currently detecting Messenger Plus! as Spyware.
Well, MS, again, eating a new slice of the cake…
I think it will be better if Microsoft release a better, more trustable, browser than IE…
You make a hole and then try to close it…
Hmm looking at the screenshots, in the upper right hand corner is an icon that says Real-Time Protection. Dont know if that is good or bad. Could cause some conflicts?
I went over the information that is presently available on the MS Anti-spyware program. Actually, I like the clean, simple, user freindly interface. It has the most needed functions and an easy to understand information panel.
Not clear on whether it is free, or how often updates will be available for manual or auto download.
As for Messenger Plus…
MS did not say MP itself was spyware. It warned that it bundles with other programs that ARE spyware. In any case, it pays to be cautions.
My recommendation: Stay with Spyware Blaster and SpywareGuard.
If you want a really nice anti-spyware (resident), try Spyblocker. I still have version 4.75 which was the last freeware. It protects against cookies, spyware, scripts, ads, bugs and worms.
yes, It’s looks really easy to use and understand, and it’l probally be good since people from Giant anti-spyware will be helping in the making of it, and making of updates
Hopfully they at least offer a free version of it, and it might be included with future operating systems.Hopfully the BETA for it is a public one
It might only be time until Apple release a anti-spyware program ;D
I will be sitting firmly on the fence with this, even though this is a piece of bought in software, we have no idea what MS will have done with it or how it will react/interact with other security software.
Your PC’s security is too serious to go installing a BETA product, let others be the guinea pigs, wait for the reviews and reports to come out; unless you are prepared deal with the consequences of a conflict (no point whining then).
The product was a paid for product previously and I don’t see M$'s generosity of heart releasing this for free (hopefully I will be wrong here). Why be an unpaid BETA tester for MS when, you don’t even know if the end product will be freeware or paid for.
You have to ask yourself, do I need this? have I got a problem with my existing anti-spyware software, available on freeware?
Microsoft is currently detecting Messenger Plus! as Spyware
Technicly speaking it is malware so it should be detected as such.
It is nice that MS finally is giving the people a way to remove malware. If it will be freeware that would even be nicer. If we have to pay for it, I would say “NO THANKS”. We already have ad-aware, spybot s&d, HijackThis and some other real good ones and all freeware.
Will it add anything to the excisting (freeware) applications? I doubt it. The main thing is detecting and removing malware. A job that already is handled real good by the excisting applications.
My advice:
If you have to pay for it. Don’t !!!
If it is freeware, give it a try. But remember there is no application that will detect/remove all malware. So you still need to use others along with the one from MS.
The program, with monthly updates, is a step toward plans by Microsoft to sell full-blown antivirus software later this year.
Microsoft said that starting Thursday, consumers can download the new security program from the company’s Web site www.microsoft.com and that updated versions will be offered automatically and free each month.
Also being offered is a free program to remove “spyware,” a category of irritating programs that secretly monitor the activities of Internet users and can cause sluggish computer performance or popup ads.
Microsoft said the virus-removal program will not prevent computer infections and was never intended to replace the need for traditional antivirus software, such as flagship products from McAfee Inc. or Symantec Corp.
But a senior Microsoft executive confirmed the company’s plans to sell its own antivirus software, which would compete against programs from McAfee, Symantec and others.
Microsoft purchased a Romanian antivirus firm, GeCAD Software Srl., for an undisclosed amount in 2003. Industry rivals expect Microsoft’s formal entry into the market as early as the spring.
Their also thinking about coming out with a new and improved lawn mower in the summer… ;D
With their track record for security holes, I don’t think I would trust their “security programs”…
