Symantec says that Mobile AntiVirus 4.0 automatically protects mobile devices from threats contained within email and MMS (multimedia messaging service) messages, downloaded from memory cards, or transmitted over cellular networks, WiFi, Bluetooth, or infrared connections. The program uses the company's LiveUpdate Wireless service to automatically update threat protection signatures, and provides centralized management features that enables administrators to configure, lock, and enforce security policies on the handset from a centralized console.
A global survey conducted by Symantec showed that a "significant majority" of companies do not adequately address smartphone security, the company reports. Although a majority of respondents allow their employees to purchase their own smartphones, only 10 percent have deployed comprehensive smartphone security systems. The survey also found that 80 percent of companies that allow corporate data on handheld mobile devices do not secure that data.
Jon Oltsik, senior analyst for information security at the Enterprise Strategy Group, stated, "The ad hoc or wait-and-see mobile security approach we've seen corporations use in the past is beginning to change. CIOs and IT groups are now considering how the business needs of mobility impact their security policies. Many shops that considered themselves PC-only environments are now grappling with multi-environments like Windows and Symbian on mobile phones for the very first time."
AvailabilitySymantec Mobile AntiVirus 4.0 for Windows Mobile is expected to ship later this month. Pricing was not disclosed.
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