Check Point offers superior protection for enterprise exposure to consumer applications

Check Point Software Technologies has announced that its enterprise security gateways now have the unique ability to block Skype v3.5, the latest version of the popular consumer VoIP application. This development, leveraging Check Point’s SmartDefense integrated intrusion prevention capabilities, is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to help enterprises better manage the risks from consumer software downloaded by employees for personal use.

The addition of Skype v3 management and blocking capabilities is particularly critical because a new virus called “w32/Ramex.A” is currently spreading through Skype for Windows. Infected users send a chat message to other Skype users, asking them to click on a web link that can infect the computer of the recipient. With Check Point, an IT administrator could immediately secure the corporate network against the virus by simply blocking Skype use until the virus storm has passed, or limiting use to versions not affected.

“As new ways of communication and collaboration like IM, Skype and P2P applications are increasingly gaining popularity the Indian enterprises are facing potential new threats introduced into the network by these applications,” said Bhaskar Bakthavatsalu, Country Manager, India & SAARC, Check Point Software Technologies. “Check Point is leading the way by ensuring that the enterprises in India have the management and blocking capabilities for the most current versions of consumer software applications, such as Skype v3.”

Consumer applications such as instant messaging (IM), peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing and Skype are often installed by employees without the company’s knowledge or consent. Once installed on even a single PC connected to the network, the application can become an open avenue for hackers seeking to infiltrate the network. Check Point has strategically developed extensive security and management features for IM and P2P applications running across a corporate network. By offering IT administrators more granular control of these applications, an enterprise can reduce the risk of security breaches associated with consumer software vulnerabilities as well improve employee productivity by limiting distractions.

Beyond security vulnerabilities, the potential for proprietary information to be sent off the network without approval introduces legal and competitive risks. Plus, the added bandwidth consumption from these products can increase IT costs and negatively affect the performance of the overall network. Lastly, employers may not want employees to be distracted by alternative communication mediums such as Skype, MSN, Jabber, ICQ and others.

As part of Check Point’s management capabilities, IT administrators can limit or entirely block IM and P2P communications, and help set boundaries over their network traffic. Real-time updates from Check Point’s SmartDefense Services provide Check Point users with the latest patches to ensure customers are protected against new exploits, vulnerabilities and protocols. Additionally, the Check Point SmartDefense engine allows administrators to add advanced functionalities that are both protocol- and heuristic-based.

Check Point Software Technologies