Aimed as a supplement to its own SONAR technology and using technology from Sana Security, Symantec released the standalone Norton AntiBot beta in early June. AntiBot runs in the background (Symantec says it doesn’t conflict with other malware-fighting apps) but doesn’t use the traditional signature approach to sniff out viruses. Rather, it keeps an eye on programs’ behaviors, noting keystroke logging, Web sites they try to reach, Registry changes, and more. Symantec isn’t offering tech support for AntiBot, but Vista support is included.

Conversely, LavaSoft’s new Ad-Aware 2007, also released in early June, reportedly won’t offer Vista support until August. In addition to a free version of the venerable malware detector, paid Pro ($39.95) and Plus ($26.95) versions are available. The free version forgoes customized scans, scheduling ability, Real-Time Monitor, Ad-Watch RegShield, free support, and other features. Besides enhanced CSI (Code Sequence Identification) detection and a retooled engine, Ad-Aware also now sports a snappy new interface.

A company called Vervata has released new Pro and Light versions of its FlexiSPY software for BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, and Nokia Series 60 phones. Running invisibly in the background and accessible only via “secret code,” both versions track all SMS messages, call logs, email, and device location, uploading the info to a Web-accessible company server for “viewing and analysis.” Pro additionally lets you turn on a phone’s microphone from any other phone. Yikes. Unethical? Not according to Vervata managing director Atir Raihan, who’s quoted in a press release we received as saying, “While spying on people may seem unethical, cheating spouses, rogue employees sharing private company data, or unsuspecting children receiving SMS messages from pedophiles are all activities nobody wants to see happen.” Interestingly, our company’s Web filter blocked access to FlexiSpy.com. Vervata says FlexiSPY isn’t a virus or Trojan, but F-Secure labels it as malware.