Microsoft buys tools for fighting spyware

Microsoft Corp.’s announcement last week that it has purchased a small vendor of antispyware tools serves to highlight the growing seriousness of the spyware problem for users, according to security analysts.

Microsoft said it acquired New York-based Giant Company Software Inc. for an undisclosed amount and plans to use the company’s intellectual property and technology assets to provide Windows users with new tools for protecting their systems against spyware.

A beta version of a spyware protection tool based on Giant Company’s technology is due to be released in January for Windows 2000 and subsequent versions of the operating system, said Amy Carroll, director of Microsoft’s security business and technology unit. She said the tool will be able to scan for, detect and remove spyware and other malware.

Microsoft officials haven’t decided yet whether the antispyware tool will be integrated into future Windows releases or sold as a stand-alone product, Carroll said. “Our immediate job right now is to get the beta out,” she added.