(Click here for a larger view of Norton Smartphone Security)

While Symantec had previously released security software for Windows Mobile devices, such as its Mobile AntiVirus, this was primarily aimed at enterprise IT departments. Norton Smartphone Security, in contrast, will be sold as an individual download or retailed in the company's familiar yellow box.

Symantec claims the product's antivirus technologies automatically scan, detect, and quarantine harmful viruses, worms, and mobile spyware. They reportedly operate on individual files, file archives, and applications.

The anti-spam feature for SMS means that short messages, whether text or multimedia, are blocked if they come from unknown senders. Additionally, an enhanced firewall -- which operates on WAN, WLAN, and Bluetooth connections -- is said to block hackers, intrusions, and denial-of-service attacks in real time.

According to Symantec, Norton Smartphone Security can prevent a remote intruder from entering a phone and exporting data from it. An "anti-snoopware" feature also protects a phone's camera from being turned on remotely.

The claims the software is easy for a user to manage. Users can manage and schedule antivirus scans and protection updates, set the firewall protection level, and manage which files are encrypted. Virus scans can also be initiated manually.

Rowan Trollope, senior VP of Symantec's consumer business unit, said in a statement, "Unsecure public WiFi or network connections can put users at risk. In addition, Web and email viruses can directly infect smartphones, enabling hackers to remotely control the device, access sensitive information or disable applications."

Norton Smartphone Security runs on both Windows Mobile 5.0 and 6.0 devices and requires 1.8 MB of storage. The application is "optimized to preserve a smartphone's performance," the company said.

Availability

Available now, Norton Smartphone Security costs approximately $30, plus $30 annually for those who wish to receive program updates. More information is available from the company's website, here.

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