Facebook on Tuesday rolled out a set of new security “checkpoints” which the social network hopes will slow the massive spread of malware.

According to Facebook:

“Previously, if you suspected you may have malware installed on your device, you would either need to run anti-virus on your device or wait until Facebook identified an actionable threat. Now, with our new self-enrollment malware checkpoint, you will be able to proactively obtain your choice of a free anti-virus product to scan and clean your system.”

The announcement comes just months after Facebook announced malware-removal software partnerships with McAfee and Microsoft.

The new system offers McAfee’s Scan and Repair option and Microsoft’s Security Essentials platform. Once downloaded both applications offer the chance to scan for and remove suspected malware. The programs Facebook says will not interfere with already installed anti-virus programs.  [Read more…]