Facebook connects users to free antivirus software

Here is a screenshot of the prompt Facebook users will get when they indicate that their computer may have an infection.

Facebook is now directing users who think their computer might be infected to sites where they can get free antivirus software.

The Malware Checkpoint for Facebook sends people either to sign up for Microsoft Security Essentials or McAfee Scan and Repair. Mac users are referred to an Apple Security Updates site.

Facebook already notifies users when the site detects a possible malware infection on an individual machine, and provides these users free antivirus software to clean up the infection. The social network has now opened up its anti-malware campaign to all users in order to them them proactively protect themselves, according to a post on the Facebook Security page:

If you are concerned that your device may have been infected by malware, you can visit http://on.fb.me/infectedMSE or http://on.fb.me/infectedMcA to be self-enrolled in either our Microsoft Security Essentials or McAfee Scan and Repair malware checkpoints...

1. The McAfee option will download a small program onto your Windows computer to perform a one-time scan of your system ... [Read more]