The increasing popularity in the enterprise of mobile devices such as smartphones and RIM's BlackBerry is creating a potentially huge data and network security problem, research has warned.

But a new class of products and services aimed at managing high-end handsets is beginning to bloom, according to the latest report published by research unit Unstrung Enterprise Insider.

One of the most significant developments in this space is the increasing implementation of a process to protect high-end mobile handsets by activating a software 'kill pill' to disable lost or stolen smartphones.

"Handset management tools frequently include the ability to lock and/or erase a device that has been lost or stolen," said Tim Kridel, research analyst at Unstrung Enterprise Insider and author of the report.

"This 'kill-pill' feature is a powerful way to reduce the risk of confidential information and contacts falling into the wrong hands.

"Smartphones are typically provided only to top management and executives, so handset management tools can protect devices that carry the company's most sensitive information."

Kridel believes that, although handset management tools are relatively new in the enterprise space, wireless carriers have used their precursors internally for more than a decade to handle tasks such as issuing lists of roaming partners.

This means that the foundation has been laid for handset management tools that put enterprises in control.

The ability to remotely troubleshoot, configure and update handsets can also improve the bottom line of the enterprise by reducing costs, according to the report.

Performing these tasks on a handset in the field can avoid $100 or more in lost productivity and shipping costs particularly among enterprises with employees who travel extensively.