Bit.ly steps up security

Bit.ly, one of the most popular URL shortening services, announced it will be integrating three new security-related services by the end of the year:

1. Websense's ThreatSeeker Cloud security-as-a-service solution - to analyze and categorize the Web sites and content behind millions of shortened bit.ly URLs created daily to protect end users from "spammy URLs, malicious content and phishing sites."

2. VeriSign’s iDefense IP reputation service - to detect malware and "blacklist URLs, domains, and IP addresses which host exploits, malicious code, command and control servers, drop sites and other nefarious activity."

3. Sophos' security service - to identify malware and spam by using behavioral analysis.

Very good news, indeed!