PGP updates mobile encryption range

Unprotected information on mobile devices poses a huge risk of data loss

Encryption specialist PGP Corporation has announced two new encryption tools for mobile devices.

PGP Portable is aimed at plug-in removable media and will automatically encrypt and decrypt information stored on any such device. The application is also being integrated with PGP's existing desktop offerings.

PGP Mobile 9.10 for Windows Mobile, meanwhile, encrypts phones running Windows Mobile 6.0 or 6.1 and any store cards used by the owner. Features include automatic email encryption, IT administrator-enforced policy settings and over-the-air deployment.

"People are the new corporate perimeter, whether they are employees, suppliers, partners or consultants, carrying sensitive data on mobile storage devices and smartphones that can be easily lost or stolen," said Phillip Dunkelberger, president of PGP Corporation.

"If the email and data is not protected on these devices, organisations face a huge risk in data breaches and failure to meet compliance. With PGP Portable and PGP Mobile 9.10, PGP Corporation is helping businesses manage the risk involved with today's ever-present mobile technology."

The company also presented the US Encryption Trends Report by The Ponemon Institute, which shows that barely a quarter of people encrypt their mobile devices, even though more than half think that doing so is very important.

"Corporations are increasingly reliant on mobile technology as their primary platform. Mobile platforms of choice are driven by employees who are bringing in their own devices that IT departments need to support," said Michael Osterman, president and founder of Osterman Research.

"This is driving increasing concerns around mobile security, and organisat ions now need a solution that provides email and data protection across a diverse set of platforms."