Norton would soon be releasing Norton Smartphone Security for Android. It has not published exact release date but will be available via Android market. It joins growing list of security app available on Android platform. Products like WaveSecure, SMobile security shield, Mobile Defense, Mobile Security, and Security suite are already fighting for user attention in this highly visible space.
Like other security app Norton app allows you to remotely disable your device and wipe your data if it is stolen. Norton Smartphone Security has got 4 main features:
- Protect strangers from using your mobile in case of loss or theft by locking your mobile remotely or automatically if sim card is removed;
- Remotely erase your data from device in case of theft or loss, so that your private information is safe;
- Lets you block calls and messages from unknown contacts;
- And of course, detect and remove unwanted files without affecting your device performance. Scan all the files and app update on your phone. We can expect the best scan functionality from Norton.
The one thing I found missing was locating your lost device. Mobile Defense app does a very good job of locating your lost device using GPS, cell tower triangulation, and Wi-Fi hotspots. You can login to a secure site and view exact location of your device using embedded map. Also,
Mobile defense will alert you via email if someone tries to change sim card on your device.
Another important feature they must have for Security app is back-up of private data on secure remote server before wiping. Wiping will help prevent your information from going to unauthorized users; but it will not give you your data back. I would like to backup my data before wiping it out from device. WaveSecure is one such app that falls right into this category.
Surely, Norton is late in Android space and other app provider has moved on quickly. It needs to get its act together quickly else it will not survive in this market.
Let me know which is your favorite security app and which feature you value the most!