Our Smartphones are part of our everyday lives. These devices keep us in constant contact with the world. Phone conversations, news, music, Internet, Facebook, Twitter, camera technology, email, text messaging and many other functions are common tasks users perform and available at our fingertips. In this maze of information and communication that is transmitting all around us, there is security risk to our mobile technology. Think of your phone for a second, now how much sensitive information does it contain? Depending on the uses you have for your Smartphone there is more than just your name, address, age and picture in the devices memory. There may possibly be data about your bank account, credit cards and other information you would not want someone to obtain. Securing your mobile device will protect this data.
A recent article listed on Mashable.com identifies that many consumers fail to establish security on mobile phones. Threats to Smartphone consumers are very similar to the threats of any mobile device user. Wi-Fi and open networks present risk as well as applications, email attachments, spam and other familiar exposure areas. Device failure could result in lost data and with no backup then no recovery is possible. Maybe the bigger challenge to consumers is not only understanding the risks, but also knowing options of protection.
Lookout is free mobile security for SmartPhones which provides security protection by scanning for threats that are downloaded to the mobile device before installation. The application also provides standard scans of the health and existing applications. Additional benefits of Lookout include data backup to a secured .com site (provided) and a missing device “scream” to help locate the device. There is a premium pay option for additional functions such as “lock and wipe data” for a lost device.
Norton Smartphone Security provides protection to prevent MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) and SMS (Short Message Service) spam, eliminate mobile threats and keep your private information safe. Early detection, quarantine and removal of threats are a key function of the application. Norton is a well established name and reputation in security.
Junos Pulse Mobile Security Suite, by Juniper Networks, offers Smartphone and tablet users a comprehensive protection with antivirus, parental controls, device loss, theft protection and anti-spam. Juniper Networks has begun selling the mobile security suite to consumers through specific authorized companies such as BullGuard.com and marketed as BullGuard Mobile Security 10.
Be certain to review the system requirements and specifications to apply the proper protective application. These applications have a variety of pricing and should be reviewed to fit your specific need. Consumers and businesses need to be aware of these risks and the variety of options. Be proactive and get secure!
References:
http://mashable.com/2011/03/25/mobile-phone-security/
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