Security Featured Article

Aiming to extend its reach to smartphones and other mobile devices, global security software maker AVG Technologies has acquired Tel Aviv-based DroidSecurity, a pioneer in cloud-based mobile security. According to AVG, DroidSecurity is exclusively focused on protecting smartphones, tablets and other devices running on the Google’s (News - Alert) Android operating system.

This acquisition will enable AVG’s mobile solutions team (MST) to extend its security offerings for its more than 110 million consumers and small businesses in 170 countries to include the rapidly expanding mobile security apps.

In October, DroidSecurity’s mobile security application, antivirus free, surpassed the 4.5 million download milestone, making it one the most popular security applications on the Android (News - Alert) platform, said AVG. This milestone reflects important trends taking place in the mobile security arena, including the security consciousness of Android users, the explosive growth of the Android marketplace, and an exceptionally strong user demand for mobile security, according to AVG.In a statement, J.R. Smith, chief executive officer of AVG, said, “The potential that exists within the mobile space is extraordinary, and we predict that devices like smart phones will overtake PCs in 2012. AVG acquired DroidSecurity to accelerate our delivery of sophisticated mobile security and provide users around the world with the reliable and secure technology they need to confidently mitigate the risks associated with using mobile devices.”In another statement, DroidSecurity’s co-founder and CEO Eran Pfeffer said, “DroidSecurity and AVG share a common vision of securing consumers, small businesses and enterprises, and we believe there is a green field of opportunity when it comes to making sure mobile devices are protected. Integrating our security technologies will allow mobile users to leverage the power of their mobile devices without compromising their personal security or that of their organizations.”

Android smartphone devices and applications continue to proliferate at an astonishing pace, making it the world's fastest-growing mobile platform. According to a recent study by research firm NPD Group (News - Alert), the Android operating system continued to shake up the U.S. mobile phone market during the first quarter of 2010, edging out Apple's OS for the No. 1 spot. The number of applications on the Android market is also expected to see massive growth as Google facilitates the development of mobile programs for the platform with do-it-yourself programs such as its recently-launched App Inventor, which make it simple for users of any experience level to create programs.Upon completion of the transaction, DroidSecurity will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of AVG and will continue to be headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel. CEO and co-founder, Eran Pfeffer, will become the general manager of AVG’s MST team.  The completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, said AVG.