BlackBerry has announced it will be using an app scanning service from global cloud security company Trend Micro, to protect customers against malware on its BlackBerry World store.
The Trend Micro Mobile Application Reputation Service will be combined with BlackBerry’s own internal analytical systems to scan both current and new apps submitted to the BlackBerry World store. BlackBerry World supplies content for BlackBerry 10 handsets such as the newly launched BlackBerry Z10.
BlackBerry World apps will be scanned for any potential malware as part of BlackBerry’s approach for addressing privacy issues and security concerns that could be linked to any apps present on the BlackBerry World store.
“By incorporating Trend Micro’s advanced mobile scanning and detection capabilities with our own internal, proprietary application analysing system, we can provide another layer of protection and assurance for BlackBerry customers,” said Adrian Stone, Director of BlackBerry Security Response and Threat Analysis. “Together, BlackBerry and Trend Micro are developing an innovative and comprehensive solution for protecting BlackBerry customers against emerging mobile security concerns.”
Trend Micro has already scanned over 2 million mobile apps using its Mobile Application Reputation service, which analyses app codes and behaviour to assess its potential data protection and malware risks.
“The volume of malicious and high-risk mobile apps are on the rise across the industry, which is why we applaud BlackBerry’s commitment to protecting their customers against these emerging mobile threats,” commented Kevin Simzer, Vice President of Corporate Development and Alliances at Trend Micro.
“With the speed that cybercriminals are targeting new platforms and applications, Trend Micro and BlackBerry’s strategic collaboration is natural and timely for the security of end users. Together, the companies can further secure and enhance BlackBerry customers’ mobile experience.”
The service from Trend Micro also monitors the battery, storage and data usage of an individual app to ensure an app isn’t an adverse addition to a user’s smart device.
The BlackBerry World store was upgraded and revitalised ahead of the BlackBerry 10 OS, BlackBerry Z10 and BlackBerry Q10 launch last week, with new music, TV show and film content added to its app selection.
Do you think the BlackBerry World store has a wide variety of available apps? What other apps would you like to see featured in the BlackBerry World store? Let us know on the Trusted Reviews Twitter and Facebook pages or use the comment boxes below.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
