GateProtect Releases New Skype Blocker Security Patch

PRESS RELEASE

Hamburg, Germany. 22 April 2010 " The German-based IT security specialist gateProtect today released a security patch for its Unified Threat Management (UTM) appliances that allows companies to block the use of Skype. This gives them a reliable way of stopping dangerous malware from entering the network via a potential security vulnerability, while preventing unwanted messaging and chatting during working hours. The patch, called HU-01050, is available immediately and will be installed automatically on all gateProtect firewall systems from Version 8.6 via the update server.

In almost all companies, the use of instant messaging programs like Skype, ICQ and AOL Instant Messenger is unwelcome. As they enable people to share files, they can pose a risk to corporate networks while distracting staff from their work. Skype is a particularly tough instant messenger as it is based on proprietary protocols that escape detection by proxies and firewalls in various ways, including encryption.

"Skype's ability to slip through firewalls and NAT gateways is well known," says Dennis Monner, CEO of gateProtect. "Administrators have long had an ongoing battle to block Skype. As no administrator permissions are needed to install it, many employees are unaware of their company's security policies and use it without informing their IT department. As a result, companies have virtually no control over the data users share via Skype." The Skype service uses Port 80 (HTTP) and Port 443 (HTTPS) for its internet connection, and in most companies these ports are open as they are needed for web use. Skype can also use higher ports (above1024) for its internet access.

About gateProtect AG Germany

gateProtect Germany is a leading provider of IT security solutions in the area of network protection. Its primary products are xUTM appliance, firewall and client encryption systems.

Differentiators

Alongside their technical highlights, gateProtect products stand out from their competitors with their unique ease of use. gateProtect is the only provider in the world with an end-to-end implementation of the ISO NORM 9241 guidelines relating to ergonomic product design. With its unique and patented eGUI' (ergonomic Graphic User Interface) technology and its Command Center, gateProtect again raises the bar for easier configuration and management of firewall systems for Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs). The innovative eGUI' technology enables a significant increase in enterprise security as well as higher efficiency levels for ongoing system maintenance. This delivers lower operating costs for customers.

Customers

gateProtect currently has 20,000 installations in Europe. The company's German customers include well-known companies and institutions such as T"V Th¼ringen, E.ON Energy, Mercedes Benz, Galileo Satellite Systems, Deutsche Bahn, Kneipp, Constantin Film, the Technical University of Dresden and many more. The company's main target markets are midsized companies across all industries. Further information is available at www.gateProtect.com.

Further information:

phronesis PR GmbH (PR agency)

Magdalena Brzakala

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