Computer security firm McAfee has released an enhanced version of its Mobile Security application that features App Lock, a new app privacy technology and a refreshed user interface.
With the new application, Android smartphone and tablet users can now protect their personal information living inside their mobile apps, the company said.
App Lock, which is now a part of McAfee’s app protection feature protects against privacy danger and also allows Android users to protect installed apps against misuse by locking them with the same PIN that’s tied to their McAfee Mobile Security account.
With the newly added App Lock features, it provides an added layer of customisable security to protect against the use of an app by unwanted persons.
In addition to App Lock, the update includes a redesigned user interface taht provides a consistent experience across all McAfee consumer applications and a color-coded system that simplifies the process to scan for threats
McAfee Mobile Engineering and Operations senior vice president and general manager Ari Jaaksi said App Lock allows consumers to block nosy friends, thieves and hackers from invading their privacy and stealing personal information.
"And for parents whose children have access to their phones, it can be used to control which apps the little ones can access," Jaaksi said.
McAfee Mobile Security provides real-time protection from the latest viruses and malware by scanning for malicious code in files, memory cards, applications, Internet downloads and text messages. It also blocks risky websites to protect against phishing and scams.
The application claims to back up and restore data remotely through a web portal and locates a lost or stolen device on a map as well as remotely locks it to prevent misuse and continues to track a device, even if the SIM is replaced.
McAfee Mobile Security reviews and reports on the privacy access levels of an app and checks against McAfee TrustedSource URL reputation database to report risky apps and blocks unwanted calls and texts.
The application protects against web threats by blocking risky links within SMS, email, and social networking sites and also safeguards against potential phishing sites, browser exploits, and malicious quick response (QR) codes.
