Search engine giant Google has acquired its long-term free online malware scanner VirusTotal, which is expected to enhance protection for its Internet services.
VirusTotal, through the use of 44 different antivirus products for detecting malware that their security software may have missed, will offer free online tools which scan suspicious files and URLs to detect viruses, worms, trojans, and other malware.
The acquisition of the firm, which collects warnings on submitted files and websites from most antivirus solutions, comprising Intel’s McAfee and Symantec, could support the search giant’s ability to extract infectious content from Gmail, Google+ as well as pagesdisplayed for users.
Following the acquisition, VirusTotal will work independently from Google, while operating along with other antivirus firms and security experts.
According to VirusTotal, Google could assist enhance the service and ensure that its tools are always ready, whenever required.
Along with the current acquisition, Google has also acquired anti-virus producer GreenBorder Technologies, along with a communications security and compliance firm, Postini, in 2007.
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