Symantec to block exploits in IE

Security vendor Symantec has launched a project aimed at plugging holes in Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE).

Project 'Canary' will run alongside IE "looking for attempts to exploit the browser", according to Adam Bromwich, senior manager for the development of advanced concepts at Symantec.

Instead of patching vulnerabilities in the browser, Canary will block code that tries to exploit those vulnerabilities.

Symantec plans to ship a consumer product this spring (autumn in the northern hemisphere), and a business product "soon". The product will be extended to Firefox and Safari in the future, Bromwich said.

Tom Espiner reported for ZDNet UK from London