Patent ID: 8201247
Filing Date: 2012-06-12
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A computer-implemented method of providing a computer security service via instant messaging, the method comprising: receiving, by a server computer, an instant message from an originating user account; parsing the instant message by the server computer to identify files and universal resource locators (URLs) in the instant message; if any files are identified, then scanning said identified file(s) for malicious code to generate scan results; if any URLs are identified, then checking said identified URL(s) against a ratings database to generate rating results; validating the originating user account and not sending the responsive instant message if the originating user account is found to be invalid; and generating, by the server computer, a responsive instant message to the originating user account if the originating user account is found to be valid, wherein the responsive instant message includes said scan and rating results.