Company officials said the new version of Mobile Security will give users an advantage against what industry analysts expect will become the next big wave of attacks from virus writers.

"The number of people using data -centric devices and smartphones continues to grow, and, as a result, so does the potential security threat to users," said Raimund Genes, Trend Micro's global head of mobile security products.

"The network boundary has shifted, and organizations and operators now need to consider extending security measures to protect user devices," he said. "Trend Micro is focused on providing such additional network-wide protection as threats evolve and diversify."

Two-Way Protection

Company officials said the Mobile Security product, in addition to helping smartphone users, will help mobile operators and enterprises protect their systems from malicious mobile code.

For administrators, Mobile Security features a Web-based console designed for centralized management and provisioning. Using the console, administrators can access all client devices and manage, update, and automate compliance to protect against multiple types of threats.

Mobile Security also provides administrators with centralized reports that can identify device OS platform, scan engine, and virus-pattern versions.

Smartphone Perimeter

On the user side, consumers can install the client version of the software on their handhelds much as they would install antivirus and antispam protection on their desktop and laptop computers.

Mobile Security can receive updated virus definitions wirelessly or by synchronizing with a local PC. The software takes advantage of TrendLabs, Trend Micro's global team of engineers who work around the clock to monitor virus activity and develop information on new threats.

Users can block text-message spam with configurable antispam controls, such as an approved-sender list and a blocked-sender list. The Mobile Security software runs on several mobile operating systems, including most major versions of Windows Mobile and Symbian.

Consumers can download a free trial version from www.trendmicro.com/mobilesecurity. Pricing begins at $24.95 per device.

For businesses and mobile carriers wanting the administration capabilities, the software is available through resellers.