Reuters - Microsoft Corp. began offering anti-spyware program downloads for Windows users on Thursday, taking the first step in offering its own computer security products and sending shares of security software vendors lower.
The new software, which block programs that generate unwanted pop-up ads and secretly record a computer user's activities, is based on a program from Giant Company Software Inc., which Microsoft acquired last month for an undisclosed amount.
Windows AntiSpyware was launched in beta, or test, mode and is available for download at www.microsoft.com/spyware.
The world's largest software maker also said it would begin offering a tool next week to remove viruses and other malicious software from computers.
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