SMobile Systems has released what it claims to be the first virus guard software suite for the Android mobile phone platform. SMobile's Android version of its SecurityShield software is said to offer anti-virus, anti-spam, and firewall protection for the Google-initiated, Linux-based mobile phone… platform.

The Android version of SecurityShield adheres to specifications from the Open Handset Alliance, and to coding standards specified in the Android SDK (software development kit), SMobile says. It ported the stack to Android within weeks of the kit's preview release earlier this month, it boasts.

The SecurityShield suite comprises:

• VirusGuard — targets viruses and malware from email, SMS, MMS, direct download, Bluetooth, or infrared transmission
• PointGuard — filters SMS, MMS, and voice calls via customizable blacklists and whitelists
• Firewall - said to monitor cellular, WiFi, and “phone-to-PC” traffic for harmful or questionable content

SMobile says it plans to eventually release all of its mobile security products for the Android platform, including its Network Shield software, which was ported to Linux earlier this year. That product endeavors to stop malware at the network level, the company claims.

Additionally, SMobile says it plans to develop security products specifically tailored for Android. These will reportedly include an advanced application level firewall and system monitor aimed at enabling a user to decide whether an application — or a virus posing as one — can make phone calls or Internet connections.

Stated CTO George Tuvell, “SMobile believes the Linux-based operating system will quickly enable hackers to explore and eventually exploit any security holes in the core Google software as well as third party software.”

Availability

The Android version of SecurityShield appears to be available now. Pricing was not disclosed.

 
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