F-Secure has released a new mobile security solution which will provide immediate information on whether a mobile application is considered safe to install.
The company claims that this proactive mechanism within F-Secure’s Mobile Security provides comprehensive protection against spying programs and the full range of other mobile threats.
The F-Secure Mobile Security application will also offer better parental control capabilities – called Safe Applications. It employs a simple ‘tick-in-a-box’ system that makes it easy for parents to select the types of apps to restrict on a mobile device. For example, it can prevent the installation and use of social media or gambling apps. Any new application will require authorisation by the parent.
The new version has an option – Safe Contacts, which enables the user or parents to define a list of safe individuals and to control the calls, text messages and multi-media messages received. This protects the user from unwanted messages and calls, including advertising related spam or mobile bullying and sexting.
To supplement anti-theft features, F-Secure has also introduced a new End User Web Portal for users to access the product’s anti-theft features, in addition to using the existing SMS commands. The portal is accessible via web and mobile browsers, allowing users to launch key anti-theft operations like remote lock, wipe, locate, alarm and unlock from a web interface. The portal also makes it possible to manage multiple devices, for example all of a family’s smartphones and tablets, under one account.
The F-Secure Mobile Security solution is available for Android, Symbian and Windows Mobile operating systems. It will now also be available include BlackBerry but through the operators only.
In case of a RIM device getting lost or stolen, Mobile Security users can remotely sound an alarm or lock the device to prevent unauthorised access to private information. It locates the device remotely using GPS, and also makes it possible to remotely wipe the data from the device if it cannot be recovered.
F-Secure Mobile Security is available on company’s website and through F-Secure’s operator partners. While the India specific pricing is not available, it is available internationally for $30 (Rs 1,500 approximately) for one year and $50 (Rs 2,600) for two years. A free trial version is also available through the F-Secure’s site. Anti-theft software can also be downloaded for free through this site.