Webroot snaps up UK-based Prevx

Security firm Webroot has agreed to acquire cloud anti-malware specialist Prevx for an undisclosed sum.

Webroot said that the Prevx offering will be integrated into the Webroot suite, allowing the company to improve anti-malware tools for its consumer and enterprise security platforms.

Dick Williams, chief executive at Webroot, claimed that the deal will offer security services better equipped to handle growing loads of new malware samples and web-based attacks.

"Prevx is the leader in cloud-based anti-virus protection and behaviour-based malware detection, which block threats before they can ever reach a PC or corporate network," he said.

"This technology, combined with Webroot's innovations, customer service and support, will make it easy for consumers to stay protected online wherever they go, and easy for businesses to protect their employees and networks."

Under the terms of the deal, Prevx founder Mel Morris will join Webroot as vice president and general manager for Prevx operations.

"Webroot shares our desire to innovate at a time when our industry has fallen behind in the war against online crime," said Morris.

"We also share a commitment to developing a relationship with our customers and making security an experience they enjoy."