Mobile Security
Korean smartphone manufacturers are increasingly working with non-Korean security firms. For example, Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics chose Absolute Software and Intel Security (McAfee) as their respective partners for the kill switch function of the flagship handsets Galaxy S5 and LG G3.
A kill switch can be defined as a tool for removing personal data and preventing reuse in the event of a stolen or lost smartphone. It was made mandatory for all smartphones in April by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning in an attempt to forestall smartphone-based personal information theft, banking fraud and technology leaks.
“Our AhnLab V3 Mobile provides the kill switch function as well, not to mention theft prevention and remote data management, but we had no opportunity at all to show our product to the leading handset manufacturers,” said a representative of AhnLab, a previous partner of Samsung Electronics.
“We signed the contract with a non-Korean firm because it supports the immediate provision of the kill switch function,” said one of the smartphone makers in response, continuing, “However, new contracts can be signed with any other firms if they provide solutions supporting the function.”