Free tool can stop rootkits

Grisoft has released a free anti-rootkit tool for Windows PCs

Security vendor Grisoft has extended its AVG lineup with a free tool to detect and remove rootkits.

A rootkit is a program that can conceal its presence on a system and is often malicious code designed to spy on the user. AVG Anti-Rootkit is able to distinguish between such malicious code and legitimately hidden processes, according to Grisoft. The tool has just completed six months of beta testing to ensure its reliability.

“AVG Anti-Rootkit is developed to detect and destroy rootkits effectively, without bothering users with false alarms," said Larry Bridwell, Global Security Strategist at Grisoft.

AVG Anti-Rootkit is available now as a free English-language download for Windows PCs. The firm said it will offer regular updates, just as with its antivirus and anti-malware tools.