Telstra is introducing new technology in a bid to stop cyber criminals turning customers' computers into launch pads for cyber attacks.
The telco will introduce "malware protection technology" to its BigPond network from October, becoming the first Australian internet provider to do so.
The technology is designed to protect against types of malicious software - or malware - known as botnets.
When the malware infects a computer, it sets up an internet link with an external server managed by cyber criminals.
Unbeknownst to users, cyber criminals can then covertly use the infected computer as a launch pad for spam and other attacks, and potentially access personal information.
The protection technology stops this by blocking any attempts by the computer to access servers known to be operated by cyber criminals.
Telstra cited research from a cybersecurity site showing about six per cent of home computers are infected with botnet malware.
In a blog post announcing the initiative on Tuesday, Alan Crouch, a Telstra director, sought to allay concerns that the technology could breach customer privacy.
"No internet search history, browsing data or any other customer data is recorded, retained or sent to a third party," he wrote.
He added that the technology was not a panacea, recommending up-to-date anti-virus software and strong passwords.
