Symantec is targeting spyware and adware with the latest version of its Client Security 3.0 and AntiVirus Corporate Edition 10.0 products.

Due in March, the offerings will automatically detect and remove spyware, as well repair damage caused by these risks, the company said.

"Customers are looking for spyware and adware protection from their antivirus vendor, a partner they trust," said Brian Foster, senior director of product management for client and host security at Symantec.

According to Meta Group, spyware and adware infections are becoming a top concern for IT operations, and cleaning infected clients can represent 20 per cent or more of IT help desk time.

Meta Group programme director Peter Firstbrook said: "Although malware differs from traditional viruses, they represent the same problem: the need for defending and cleaning clients of unwanted software."

Symantec also unveiled improvements to its Network Security 7100 series intrusion prevention appliances, which now provide extended protection against spyware and bots.

The added protection enables organisations to block these threats at the network level, preventing personal and confidential information from being transmitted outside the enterprise, the company claimed.