Sophos joins anti-spyware group

Security company Sophos has joined the Anti-Spyware Coalition, a group of technology companies and public interest groups.

Security company Sophos has joined the Anti-Spyware Coalition (ASC), a group of technology companies and public interest groups.

The group's aim was consensus and best practice in defining and combating spyware and other unwanted software, according to a statement from Sophos.

“Concerted action by security companies and industry groups such as the ASC and IIA [Internet Industry Association] will add to the confidence of computer users when confronting the spyware issue,” said Rob Forsyth, managing director at Sophos Australia and New Zealand.

He said Sophos was committed to assisting development of standards and best practices that would help protect computer users from malicious and unwanted software.

Ari Schwartz, associate director of the Centre for Democracy and Technology, which has led the work of the ASC, said it looked forward to Sophos bringing their expertise to the alliance.

"The participation of global companies like Sophos demonstrates the critical role that ASC can play, providing a focal point for industry-wide efforts against the spyware menace."