IBM helps companies secure Web businesses
ConvergenceAsia staff
06/02/2009

IBM has announced new capabilities designed to address the security and compliance concerns of businesses creating dynamic and interactive Web sites. As companies infuse more Web 2.0 content into their global, online presence, they are seeing an increased risk of security vulnerabilities. Using IBM Rational AppScan, companies can now test Web 2.0-based applications to identify security vulnerabilities on a frequent basis, helping to make the Web experiences they provide to customers more secure from hackers. The new features also enhance customers’ abilities to address regulatory mandates and meet business policies.

According to the newly released 2008 IBM X-Force Trend Report, Web applications remain the Achilles heel for the security industry. Hackers and other cyber criminals target Web 2.0 technologies because of their prevalence across the Web. With IBM Rational AppScan Standard Edition 7.8, IBM is introducing new functionalities that enable companies to scan and test rich, Flash-based Web content and applications for security defects before the content is deployed. This new software can also scan Web sites built with Ajax technology.

For companies that are concerned that their Web services will face the same vulnerabilities as their Web applications, the new version of IBM Rational AppScan now also supports complex Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) applications.

IBM also announced new risk assessment capabilities in this new version of IBM Rational AppScan, which help customers better understand where security vulnerabilities are located and suggest an action plan to minimise further risk.

"We're witnessing a trend with governments mandating that organisations deliver software built with security-tested code. Clearly, application security is moving towards being a compliance requirement, not just a best practice," said Dr. Daniel Sabbah, general manager, IBM Rational Software.

"It's more crucial than ever for customers to treat security and compliance as a top priority. By offering customers the ability to infuse continuous security testing into their Web 2.0 and SOA application development, IBM can help them reduce cost, manage risk and provide better online experiences for consumers," he added.

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