Computer security company Kaspersky Lab has introduced a new version of its Mobile Security, which provides protection to Android smartphones.

The updated application offers new features, including ways to block infected and phishing websites used by cybercriminals to steal data.

Mobile Security uses traditional methods of anti-malware protection combined with heuristics and cloud technologies, delivering quick response to new malware and enabling fast updates of information about malicious websites.

The new version also filters unwanted calls and text messages and a new web antivirus module which provides extra security.

Kaspersky Mobile Security has blacklisting and whitelisting features to protect users from unwanted contacts. It also secures personal data by hiding incoming and outgoing call history, text messages and contacts from prying eyes.

The new application can be configured to automatically lock this information after a predefined time. Users can now hide the data remotely by sending a text with a command to the smartphone.

Updated Mobile Security application can selectively delete data stored on the device or wipe all data if necessary, the company said.

The new application helps the owner to retrieve the stolen or lost devices by sending a message with a command which tracks the location of the smartphone through its GSM module, cellular base stations or a nearby Wi-Fi network.

If the SIM card of phone is replaced by criminals, the SIM Watch feature will automatically block the phone and email the new phone number to the device’s owner.

Kaspersky Lab senior mobile product development manager Victor Dronov said the new version of Kaspersky Mobile Security provides protection against malware as well as dangerous websites, including those used to steal online banking credentials.

"Whatever the threat faced by the user, Kaspersky Mobile Security will always help to protect the user’s data from theft and the smartphone from infection," Dronov said.