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IMlogic Inc. on Tuesday launched a free tool to let enterprises detect and block the use of instant messaging, peer-to-peer file sharing networks and voice-over-IP applications within their walls.
Called IM Detector Pro, the software provides a first step for organizations to get a handle on the extent of such traffic flowing on their networks and to decide how to best manage it, said Dave Fowler, IMlogics vice president of marketing and strategic alliances.
With the use of IM and P2P increasing, corporations can face risks of sensitive information being disclosed, employees illegally sharing copyrighted files, or viruses and worms entering their networks, Fowler said. Meanwhile, they must meet corporate governance requirements to prevent security breaches.
“Ignorance is not a defense in a lot of these cases, and corporations and universities are just waking up to the fact that a lot of this is going on and that it does put them at risk,” Fowler said.
Fowler said that companies can use IM Detector Pro as a stopgap measure while developing their plans for managing the increased use of IM and P2P networks.
No doubt, part of IMlogics motivation for offering a free tool is to demonstrate the need for their gateway product for managing and securing IM. The Waltham, Mass.-based company is one of a growing number of vendors in the IM management space, including Akonix Systems Inc. and FaceTime Communications Inc.
IM Detector Pro is available for download from IMlogics Web site. It can be deployed by itself or along with IMlogics IM Manager product.
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