Artificial intelligence (AI) from Singapore-based SecureAge Technology can help home users detect and prevent unknown cyber threats.
 
The data and endpoint protection company has added a feature to its SecureAPlus application controller to simplify security protection for home users. The automatic mode lets the SecureAPlus AI engine build personalised allow lists without user input, preventing malicious files from causing irreparable damage. This can help secure the gap between company networks and home devices.
 
According to the independent IT security institute AV-Test, 350,000 malicious malwares are released daily, and this number continues to rise as attackers look to exploit the Covid-19 pandemic and increase in home workers. Traditional antivirus products only catch known threats already on deny lists, so even the best standard AI powered threat detection rates of 99 per cent leave systems and end users vulnerable to a degree of unknown malware.
 
While SecureAPlus is VB100 certified like other endpoint detection products, the difference is that for threats that fall outside the 99% detection, SecureAPlus will deny-by-default and then recommend actions to guide users in making the final decision.
 
Some other approaches simply apply blanket rules to threats they detect, such as delete or quarantine, which can have unintended consequences. SecureAPlus blocks first and then asks for guidance when it knows it needs it.
 
“At SecureAge we place security and usability on equal footing, so automatic mode is designed as a safe haven for non-tech savvy users that keeps disruption to an absolute minimum,” said Ngair Teow-Hin, CEO of SecureAge Technology. “Operating in the background, automatic mode cannot be disabled or manipulated, and security prompts only appear when the AI requires human input. Enterprise users and advanced home users will be pleased to hear that any action that is taken in automatic mode is non-destructive and easily reversible.”
 
SecureAPlus, first launched in 2014, quickly found a following from enterprise and tech enthusiasts across 157 countries. Not only were these users able to install SecureAPlus while maintaining compatibility with their antivirus products, it also enabled them to analyse new and unknown threats and the impacts of applying different methods to deal with them.
 
“SecureAPlus is now much easier for me to recommend to my family and friends,” said Eric Schneider, a SecureAPlus user who was given early access to automatic mode. “With automatic mode, SecureAPlus works without them having to call me for advice if they ever get a prompt.”
 
Headquartered in Singapore, SecureAge Technology is used by governments, research institutes and organisations to protect them from cyber threats.