Symantec has finally unveiled its Norton Tablet Security software designed to protect tablet PCs that run the Google Android platform.
Security firm also updates Android smartphone software
The software, which was first announced in September this year, not only automatically scans all the apps and app updates downloaded to the tablet PC and SD card for malware but it also alerts users to fraudulent and malicious websites when surfing the web from their device, and according to Symantec this function doesn't slowdown or interrupt web browsing or downloads.
The software also benefits from a web-based anti-theft feature that enables users to identify the location of the device if it has been lost or stolen using a web browser, and can even remotely lock the device, ensuring it can not be used. A default or custom 'device lost' message can be added to the lock screen while the 'Sneak Peek' function will remotely take photos using the front-facing camera on the tablet PC and then upload them to the anti-theft site so users can identify who's got their hands on their device.
Furthermore, Symantec revealed it is updating its Mobile Security software aimed at Google Android handsets to include the same anti-theft feature that appears in Norton Tablet Security, along with a 'Scream' location feature that lets users send a text to their missing smartphone to remotely activate an alarm, helping them locate their device.
Users will also benefit from the app scanner and web protection functions that also feature in the tablet security software.
"With today's smartphones, people stand to risk losing much more than contact information when a device is lost or stolen – it's access to their email, social networking sites, financial institutions or even exposing personal photos or videos, as many celebrities have," said Dave Cole, vice president, mobile products, Norton.
"Given these risks, consumers are increasingly motivated to protect their mobile lives. Norton Tablet Security and Norton Mobile Security provide protection from physical and online threats from one of the most trusted brands in security."
Norton Mobile Security, is priced at £24.99, although Symantec said anyone that had already purchased the software would receive the new features free of charge. Norton Tablet Security costs £29.99.
Comments
Maccyroo said: Norton are far too late to the androidparty Although their previous fame as windows security softwarebiggest resource hog no longer applies to Norton 360 and IS softwareTheir android mobile apps are were in beta too long and are dire compared to something likeLookout Lookout give an excellent service and many of the essential features are in the free version If you use your brains whilst surfing on your android some of us smartphone addictsdo have brainssomewhere then you can rely on the protection offered by the free app The paid for app adds browsing and phishing protection but most phishing attempts contain such bad grammar and syntax that only a bufoon will be taken in The one feature that makes the paid version the best choice is the remote wiping feature if you lose your device and dont want some stranger fiddling with your gmail settings