Websense hasn't eliminated Facebook malware threat, claim experts
By Joe Elvin
07/10/2011
Facebook's partnership with Websense is failing to fully protect users from malware, claim IT security experts.
The social networking giant announced a deal with security firm earlier this week, but it has been claimed that users are still at risk of damaging their computer and mobile networks.
James Arlen, who is an independent IT security consultant, has argued that whilst Websense software may prevent users from clicking on links to malicious outside websites of Facebook, there is still no protection against malware found within the website itself.
Speaking to techworld.com, he claimed that there was likely to be internal malware within Facebook that could still be a threat to its users.
He said: "Oddly, they seem to be looking outward, as if everything is lily white on the inside. To be blunt, until you've cleaned up your own house, you should shut up (about security)."
The fact that the world's most popular website has been accused of storing malware might prove alarming to some PC or smartphone users. Arlen's opinions might encourage individuals and businesses to invest in improved PC or remote systems management software, to ensure they're not infected with any malicious downloads.
Arlen's opinions were backed up by HP cloud security strategist Rafal Los, who added that Facebook needs to find a more efficient method of reviewing its applications.
Furthermore, an article on techcrunch.com points out that whilst the Facebook Websense software will warn users about any potentially malicious links, users still have the option to continue on their path anyway.
