Internet Watchdog Systems Take Root

Feb 21 (JoongAng Ilbo) - With computer hacking becoming a major concern, Korean companies are rushing into the growing market of internet watchdog or security systems.

Internet security is a system that sets up a firewall (a defence) against computer hacking (unauthorized entry) into a company's computer network.

This service shows great growth potential since many domestic companies are launching e-businesses in addition to the company's general computer-based operations. This market is estimated to be worth an annual 100 to 200 billion won.

SK Global and Jang Media Interactive joined forces to launch a security service marketed as 'Daily Secure' as of December 1999. They were soon followed by four other major domestic companies and venture firms offering their own products, and Dacom joined in on February 16.

'Daily Secure' is a mail-security product that prevents Internet mail from being accessed by outsiders. It is planning to expand this service to e-businesses at large.

Igloo Security, a joint venture of Cybertek Holdings, Shinwon Telecom and Oullim Information Tech Co., have launched a service targeting stockbrokerages, insurance, and Internet-related markets. Branching out into world markets is also one of Igloo Security's goals.

Dacom International, AhnLab, and Penta Security have also collaborated in a joint enterprise, 'Coconut', that monitors and controls security systems from outside - remote-control security.

Similarly, 'Cyberpatrol' is embarking on an aggressive marketing plan focusing on companies and government agencies, providing firewalls, detection systems, and computer virus vaccines free of charge for an entire year.

Dacom is planning to roll out its e-business security provider, 'Bora Secure Net', a system that sets up a firewall, with initial set-up at 10 million won with monthly fees of 40,000 to 60,000 won.

As these security companies are in hot competition with each other, system set-up and service fees are likely to fall.

An employee at Cyberpatrol said, "There are a lot of companies showing interest in this field since it has great potential. Collaboration among major companies is definitely going to continue along with expansion into markets worldwide."