Microsoft Finalizes Malware Portal

Microsoft on Tuesday took the wraps off what it calls version 1 of its new Malware Protection Center Portal. The site offers a malware encyclopedia for investigating threats, downloads of Microsoft's latest antivirus and anti-spyware signatures, listings of the top threats and other tools.

In addition, Microsoft has begun publishing a Security Intelligence Report that provides an in-depth look at software vulnerabilities. The effort to create the site comes as part of Microsoft's initiative to make its security division more open and public-facing. In addition, the company is encouraging customers to upload samples of files they think are infected, which could aid in protecting others. Feedback on the site can be sent to Microsoft here.