Symantec Secures Mobile Devices

Symantec launched a new version of its mobile-security software this week that adds the same data-leak-prevention capabilities found in its desktop products.

Symantec launched a new version of its mobile-security software this week that adds the same data-leak-prevention capabilities found in its desktop products.The vendor also introduced several other information-security functions for smartphones and PDAs, including a mobile VPN solution, that are more commonly found in security products for laptops.

To protect corporate data, Symantec Mobile Security Suite 5.0 encrypts data on the device and memory cards, and records all file activity in a log. System administrators can check this log to see if any sensitive data files have been breached. Symantec's software also guards data by erasing information after a number of unsuccessful login attempts. Administrators can use the software to disable wireless features, such as Wi-Fi and data synching.

The software also provides antivirus, firewall, anti-SMS spam, network-access-control and tamper-protection features. The vendor said the security suite will help businesses better secure portable data and also ease corporate compliance with both internal corporate-governance requirements and external regulations.

Symantec said the mobile security suite and its Mobile VPN solution will ship in May.