Fortinet steps up protection for web-based applications

Network security vendor Fortinet has released a firmware update for its FortiWeb 4.0 MR2 web application firewall that allows companies to better secure and manage web-based applications.

Designed for large enterprises, service providers and managed security vendors, FortiWeb helps administrators secure web-based application data, particularly user account and payment information.

Fortinet said that the update simplifies the process of meeting the latest Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards.

Among the features is the ability for administrators to restrict uploads by file type and mask user credit card numbers during server replies.

Other updates include systems to automate FTP backups, and tools to help users automate the import, export and cloning of security policies.

The company hopes that the update will help companies lock down customer information and internal data.

"The consequences of compromised web application data can be devastating. Identity theft, corporate espionage, financial fraud, negative impact on brand equity and the potential for a backlash in customer loyalty are just a few examples," said Michael Xie, chief technology officer and vice president of engineering at Fortinet.

"That is why we are relentless in bringing innovative web application security measures to market."