McAfee launches its Mobile Security 2.0 software

SECURITY VENDOR McAfee has launched the second version of its Mobile Security software for smartphones and tablets.

Mobile malware is an increasing worry as the popularity of devices like smartphones and tablets booms. McAfee is aiming to help with its Mobile Security 2.0, which is available for £24 per year.

John Thode, EVP and general manager of consumer, mobile and small business at McAfee said, "It is increasingly clear that using a smartphone without security means any sensitive information, such as photos, bank account information or company data on that mobile device is at risk of falling into the wrong hands."

New features include an app alert that monitors and provides information about how your apps access data. It also adds filtering to block unwanted calls and spam text messages. This is on top of anti-malware, web, and anti-theft protection.

McAfee claims it is "the first to protect users from applications that include commercial spyware, adware and dialers, despite the fact that these programmes may have been downloaded in conjunction with a programme that the user wants".

Mobile Security 2.0 is compatible with Android, Blackberry and Symbian devices, but app alert is available only for Android. Existing subscribers of the software will receive a free update to the latest version.

Smartphone users, especially those with Android devices, might want to consider software like this. Yesterday Symantec reported the biggest malware distribution of the year so far, which it said it found across 13 apps in the Android Market. µ