Seattle based software giant Microsoft has reportedly developed an antivirus programme that it will give away free, alarming certain computer security experts that it will fall short of a number of key features and expose users to attacks.

Believed to be called Morro, the software will initially only take on viruses, and not offer such additional features as parental controls for surfing.

The irony is of course, that many virus attacks come about because of holes (‘bugs’) in such operating systems as Microsoft’s Windows, hence the need for constant patching (in the form of Service Packs) after the release of the product.

This will be Microsoft’s second foray into the highly competitive world of computer security. Its first, called the Windows Live OneCare, made little impression on the overall market for sophisticated security products. It is thought that Live OneCare will be dropped once Morro is ready for release (a Beta version will come first).

Morro has been created to tackle viruses in the shape of spyware, rootkits and trojans.

But, as many computer security experts fear, this is not enough to counter attacks from modern day hackers who employ a whole raft of viruses and techniques in order to attack people’s computers. The danger many feel is that many computer users will be lulled into a false sense of security by using such a package as Morro. And they will eventually discover that they need a more sophisticated programme in order to keep them safe from viruses.

Guest Article by Neil Camp

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