Deep packet inspection vendor Allot Communications Ltd. has launched a network service designed to block online illegal and harmful content. The service, called WebSafe, aims both to create a safer environment for Web surfers as well as help operators comply with emerging legislation relative to online child sexual abuse images and other illegal content. 

 

Offered as an integrated service within the Allot Service Gateway, WebSafe employs URL filtering at the network level and blacklists of specific Web pages, which can be automatically or manually updated. 

 

WebSafe also can receive updates from external sources such as regulatory bodies or law enforcement agencies. In fact, Allot (News - Alert) has become a member of the Internet Watch Foundation, the U.K.’s self-regulatory body for combating child sexual abuse images that provides data on online illegal content. The solution twice daily offers automatic updates of the IWF list.

 

“Combating child sexual abuse images on the Internet is a global challenge. The Websites are dynamic; often hopping hosting provider and country every few days and the internet industry’s role in helping to disrupt them is crucial,” says Peter Robbins OBE, QPM, chief executive of the IWF. “We work with national and international partners and a diverse range of members companies to make internet a safer place for everyone. This partnership is about stopping networks being abused whilst protecting internet users from the results of that abuse.”