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3) How to optimise your virus protection so networks can’t be attacked…

Viruses can wreak havoc on your PDA. Although virus and Trojans are not anywhere as prolific on a PDA as a desktop PC, the number of viruses is steadily increasing as these devices become more sophisticated and popular.

NEWS
In Japan a link was sent out to all Smartphone users. Every time a person clicked on that link, rogue code in the link activated, automatically calling a targeted business number. The excessive traffic generated crippled the telecommunications system. This left 10,000s businesses and homes frustrated for days as emergency repairs took place. That’s one virus attack – but what would you do if a trojan virus just deleted your files from your mobile device simultaneously with your sync files?

PDA operating systems are so simplified that by design they are less susceptible to attack by viruses. However, PDA’s can be very effective carriers of viruses. When the PDA connects to the network and is synchronised, a virus can then be transferred to the network. Therefore, an anti-virus solution should provide real time scanning to prevent viruses from entering via a device, i.e. synching, beaming, email and internet download.

PDA anti-virus software tends to work in two ways

Firstly, the executable and virus definition table (DAT) can be stored locally. Scanning occurs each time a file is accessed. The other solution is for the executable to be stored on the PDA and the DAT on the network. Scanning occurs only when the device is attached to the network.

With an "on-demand" solution, processing power is left untouched until a trigger initiates an environment scan for malicious code or viruses. This type of solution is not only transparent but also has minimum impact on the resources of the device. Given the limited memory available in devices, it would also be advisable to go for a solution that uses a small amount of memory.

Ensure that your solution comes with annual support that keeps it current with the latest features, OS compatibility updates and anti-virus protection data updates. If possible, go for a solution that can integrate into the management of your existing corporate anti-virus solution. Think about how you will send updates to the device, i.e. via wireless, internet, desktop synchronisation or third party push method. You should also ensure that full logging is available to generate security reports to stay in control of your security strategy.

A mobile connectivity solution is a gateway in to your corporate network. Treat it like part of your corporate network and do not overlook anti-virus protection. Continue...