Webroot launches Android security apps

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Webroot has released two mobile security apps to protect Android smartphones and tablets, at a time when analysts believe consumerisation of IT is here to stay.

Anti-malware and cloud-based URL scanning technologies feature in both Webroot Mobile Security for Android Smartphones and Tablet Security for Android.

To fight against the emerging malicious app threat, the Webroot technology scans applications before they are installed.

“With smartphones and tablets, we carry around vast amounts of personal data including our contacts, emails, passwords, and even financial information,” said Quinn Curtis, vice president of mobile solutions for Webroot.

“This data is targeted by cybercriminals through malware, online scams, and device theft, and the market success of the Android mobile operating system provides the scale they need to make those attacks profitable.”

Remote locking and wiping have been included in the products, alongside the ability to obtain a temporary access code from a trusted contact if passwords are forgotten.

Initially, users will only be able to get their hands on the products from Dixon’s stores for £14.99 each, so employees may need encouraging if IT departments want them to benefit from the additional security layer.

A basic version has also been made available for free on the Android Market.

Webroot said it would introduce further mobile security apps for platforms other than Android in 2011.

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