Gmail gets security upgrade

Google has launched a security-scanning application for Gmail, its 20-month-old e-mail service.

High-capacity Gmail will automatically scan for viruses and spyware each time a user sends and receives a message, according to an information page on Google’s site. Many of Google’s competitors in the e-mail sector, such as Yahoo and Hotmail, introduced similar security software some time ago. A test version of Gmail was launched in April 2004, and the company made its official debut last spring.

It’s unclear why the company has waited until now to offer an antivirus application. Previously, Google blocked transmission of executable attachments, but its new antivirus program offers broader protection.

A Google representative did not return a call Friday morning for further details.

Full story: ZDNet News