McAfee unveils spam software

Security company McAfee this week took the wraps off newly branded filtering software that helps consumers dodge unsolicited commercial e-mail, or spam. The Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company acquired the software, called SpamKiller, and related intellectual property from its creator, Norway-based Novasoft, for an undisclosed amount last month. The technology, which costs customers $29.95, works in conjunction with the e-mail client to scan all incoming messages for language and headers commonly found in junk mail. It then deletes the junk mail and gives consumers options to report the spammer to its Internet service provider, among other features.

In the fall, McAfee plans to combine the software with its line of managed applications, such as computer virus protection. At that time, it will sell the technology by annual subscription, which is yet to be determined.