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Celebrity unwittingly provides lesson on importance of mobile device security

Johannesburg, 22 Aug 2011

Paris Hilton has reportedly misplaced two mobile devices during her travels this week. Hilton is rightfully alarmed, as anyone finding the devices is potentially capable of easy access to her private information and contacts.

This isn't Hilton's first brush with mobile insecurity. In 2005, her mobile device was hacked and the contact info for her friends and family posted on the Internet.

Hilton's high-profile loss reminds us that a solution like Norton Mobile Security, which can locate, wipe and lock your Android smartphone, can come in handy.

While the average person's mobile device may not be a gateway to the rich and famous, it likely contains critical passwords, direct access to bank accounts and social networks, private messages and other privileged information. Moreover, according to Internet security leader Norton, malware and scams directed at mobile platforms have significantly increased within the past year.

Mobile device users need to protect themselves from the threats of hackers or lost critical personal information by following a few simple tips from Norton:

* Consider mobile security software, such as Norton Mobile Security, that can remotely lock, wipe or locate a lost device, and scans mobile apps to check if they are malicious.

* Always password protect or screen lock your mobile device in case it is lost or stolen.

* Use common sense when accepting application permission requests to ensure they match the application features.

* Be safe and smart when surfing the Web on your smartphone, tablet or PC by using a Web filtering service like Norton DNS.

While your mobile device may feel “glued” to you, it's one momentary lapse away from the sticky hands of others. One in three adults have faced cellphone loss, and it's a frustrating experience that can be eliminated and replaced with peace of mind by taking a few easy steps to stay protected.

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Norton from Symantec

Symantec's Norton products protect consumers from cyber crime with technologies like anti-virus, anti-spyware and phishing protection - while also being light on system resources. The company also provides services such as online backup, PC tune-up, and family online safety.

Symantec

Symantec is a global leader in providing security, storage and systems management solutions to help consumers and organisations secure and manage their information-driven world. Its software and services protect against more risks at more points, more completely and efficiently, providing confidence wherever information is used or stored. More information is available at www.symantec.com.

Note to editors: If you would like additional information on Symantec Corporation and its products, please visit the Symantec News Room at http://www.symantec.com/news. All prices noted are in US dollars and are valid only in the United States. Symantec, the Symantec Logo, and Norton are trademarks or registered trademarks of Symantec Corporation or its affiliates in the US and other countries. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Editorial contacts

Celeste Hewett
CH Communications
(011) 656 0133
celeste@chcommunications.co.za