Verso's Network Abuse Detection Feature

Verso Introduces Network Abuse Detection Feature on Enterprise NetSpective Web Filter

Verso Technologies, Inc., a global provider of next generation network solutions, announced today the general availability of a Network Abuse Detection feature for its NetSpective Web filter, which can identify, track, and terminate abusive Internet behavior, including utilization of anonymous proxy servers and continued probing of unwanted internet content.

Network administrators, educators and legal and human resource departments have determined that signature-based filtering can no longer sufficiently monitor and control Internet usage. Given the increase of proxy servers and peering applications such as Skype, many network administrators believe that analysis of user behavior is necessary to achieve effective content management.

Abusive network users, particularly those utilizing anonymous tools, challenge filter products as they attempt to bypass network filtering tools. Anonymous proxy servers hide IP addresses and enable individuals to anonymously access the Internet. An anonymous server limits an organization's visibility of IP addresses and sites visited, as it effectively hides all information, even making it impossible to determine if an anonymous proxy server is used. Though these tools claim to enhance privacy, they can bypass an organization's Internet acceptable use policy, Sarbanes-Oxley, HIPPA, and CIPA enforcement controls. Additionally, rogue anonymous proxy servers may deliver viruses to an individual's computer.

The NetSpective Network Abuse Detection feature enables network administrators to combine traditional signature based approaches with abusive behavior detection to trigger and terminate Internet services when suspicious behavior is noted. Specifically, the feature allows administrators to monitor categories of content including anonymous proxy servers, and track attempts to access flagged categories or search attempts though popular search engines including Google, Yahoo, and Windows Live. Additionally, the feature also enables administrators to set time-based thresholds that monitor access attempts and automatically trigger Internet access and services termination. The new feature also includes reporting capabilities based on key words and abusive categories identified and set by enterprise end-users.

"This feature exemplifies Verso's mission of providing the latest in content filtering technology," said John O'Reilly, vice president, NetSpective product sales, Verso Technologies. "This specifically addresses administrator needs to preemptively stop problems before they become widespread. Additionally, the feature is being used to address the concerns raised by network administrators directly reducing liabilities related to Internet usage and the rise of anonymous proxy servers" - Verso Technologies.