Symantec debuts mobile security software update

Mobile security

Antivirus house Symantec has launched the latest versions of its Norton Mobile Security offering for Android smartphones, iPhones and iPads.

The Android iteration of the software focuses on privacy, which the company claims is a growing area of concern for consumers, with particular reference to rogue apps.

The issue of privacy is a complex and evolving one, for both consumers and developers.

Using a new technology named Norton Mobile Insight, Norton Mobile Security scans users' phones to reveal which apps may be putting their personal information at risk.

The software will notify users if any app is found to be exporting information such as their contacts, photos or call logs.

This, the organisation claims, "empowers consumers to protect their personal information and make informed decisions about which apps to keep or remove".

Con Mallon, senior director of product management at Symantec, said: "The issue of privacy is a complex and evolving one, for both consumers and developers.

"Until now, mobile app privacy scanning has been done only at the most superficial level, which doesn't yield truly relevant and actionable information to consumers. With this latest release, we are [able] to deliver an unprecedented view into app privacy and information leakage. With this information, consumers can actually decide for themselves whether to keep each app."

For iOS device users, Norton Mobile Security features extended anti-theft capabilities, which includes a scream' alarm to help users find their missing phone or tablet quickly.

The software is available to purchase immediately and its recommended retail price is 29.99.

In addition, Symantec's Norton 360 Multi-Device and Norton One products will also be updated to include the features of the latest release of Norton Mobile Security.

Jane McCallion
Deputy Editor

Jane McCallion is ITPro's deputy editor, specializing in cloud computing, cyber security, data centers and enterprise IT infrastructure. Before becoming Deputy Editor, she held the role of Features Editor, managing a pool of freelance and internal writers, while continuing to specialise in enterprise IT infrastructure, and business strategy.

Prior to joining ITPro, Jane was a freelance business journalist writing as both Jane McCallion and Jane Bordenave for titles such as European CEO, World Finance, and Business Excellence Magazine.