'We are closer to 100% secure'

Has the journey from reactive to preventive security been adequate for

Symantec?



It's a continuously changing problem. We can never expect a 100% status. But

our Response Lab is making great strides, and we are as proactive and ahead of

time. There are a lot of behavioral techniques coming. We are trying a

heuristics approach against the hitherto signature approach. But one needs all

layers to be 100% proof. We are closer to 100%.

As the Norton 2008 line hints, Symantec seems to be extending its radius

beyond anti-virus. How and why?



We have definitely built a lot more expertise around anti-virus. It's not

just the basic response any more, we have added more capabilities. We are now

focusing on different types of customers. It's not just the PC, but

everything-the background, data, digital family with products like Norton 360,

PC Tune-up etc. All kinds of security and other concerns would be touched in the

new spectrum. With security 2.0, we are talking about protection from any device

anywhere.

As espoused in your new strategic focus on mobile security, do you see it

materializing as a ripe area soon?



The world we are living in today is about Web, 3G phones etc. We know

threats will happen and could be already resident. Smartphone security with

anti-spyware, anti-spam is one such area. We will watch and see, and depending

on threats, we will start covering devices. Passport space turned out to be an

interesting leap in Web security, as a central repository for personal

information, with 'single sign on' system, so people don't have to remember

hundreds of passwords and usernames as they navigate online.

Janice Chaffin, Group CEO, Symantec Consumer Unit

Throughout your experience in leading and steering Norton, what changes

you mark in the technology and market frontiers?



As we move on, there is broadband adoption with millions of users to get

ready for. This brings need for security as we see greater Internet and mobile

communication. It's changing the landscape totally, as seen in some countries

already. There are many more ways of attacks that will emerge.

Pratima Harigunani


pratimah@cybermedia.co.in