Symantec completes $1.28bn VeriSign buy

VeriSign has built a thriving business around its globally recognisable trust mark for web sites

Symantec has completed the $1.28bn (£890m) acquisition of VeriSign's identity and authentication business in a deal which will expand its web site authentication and fraud prevention capabilities.

The purchase will give Symantec VeriSign's Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Code Signing Certificate services, the Managed Public Key Infrastructure services, the VeriSign Trust Seal, the VeriSign Identity Protection (VIP) authentication service and the VIP Fraud Detection service.

Symantec is now looking to incorporate VeriSign's trusted check mark symbol in a new logo for itself and its Norton consumer security brand, set for a December release.

"Enterprises and consumers expect simple and secure access to information from any device, protection from identity fraud, and online experiences that are user friendly and hassle free," said Enrique Salem, president and chief executive of Symantec.

"The combination of Symantec's leading security solutions with VeriSign's security products, services and recognition as the most trusted brand online, uniquely positions Symantec to drive the adoption of identity security and restore trust online."

Integration efforts will include combining VeriSign's SSL and client Public Key Infrastructure authentication services with Symantec Protection Center to provide a unified enterprise security management solution, said Symantec.

VeriSign's identity security services will also be incorporated into Symantec's data loss prevention solutions and Data Insight technology.