Smartphones have become increasingly popular all around the world due to the numerous features they afford the users.
Besides combining the functions of a personal digital
assistant, camera phone, portable media player and GPR navigation unit,
they have also enhanced communication.
But beyond these trendy and fanciful features, very
few people are aware of the fact that this seemingly ‘funky’ gadget, can
be of great help in time of security threat.
In the wake of religious and social uprisings being
experienced in various parts of the country, it is important to be aware
of some security features that exist in a smartphone, especially if you
own one.
If a user is ever stranded in an isolated place,
Mobile Security Alert v1.0.0 is a Blackberry application that can help
draw the attention of someone needed.
The programme is designed for a self defence
especially when an attacker advances towards a victim. This application,
if equipped in a device, sets out an alarm in the event of a security
threat. For the adventurous who engage in activities such as hiking,
running, or cycling, this application may be useful, especially since
these activities may expose them to danger.
When in danger or emergency situation, all the user
need do is to simply activate the alarm. This will inform the people
around about the situation. But before the application can be installed
in a blackberry smartphone, the device must have a memory of 2MB and an
operating system of v4.1 or above. In order to enjoy the facility, the
user’s blackberry device must have a minimum display dimension of 160 x
160cm.
With Snap Secure application, a user gets device
protection for their BlackBerry – including Call Blocking, Anti-Theft
and Recovery, Personal Guardian, and an easy way to Find Your Missing
Device. Above all it is free.
In the event of trouble or crisis, the application
enables the user send out an emergency distress call or SMS with the
push of a button. It also allows other trusted users (i.e. loved ones)
to track the smart phone via the web. It is also a good way for parents
to keep tabs on their wards.
Personal Guardian provides a “panic button” that
triggers the following with one push: a call to an emergency number, an
email with location information, a text message with location
information, and a Twitter message with location information. It is
available for download for a fee.
MySos Personal security and peace of mind is an
application that turns a smart phone into a personal security device. It
instantly sends emails and SMS texts and BBM – along with your GPS
position – to close family and friends if you are in danger, lost or
need rescuing. The application also contains an optional sound alarm
that can be activated by simply tapping the phone screen.
In an extreme situation like earthquake, when turned
on, the alert works instantly just by tapping the phone, making it
invaluable as people will know where you are immediately (without the
need to text or call).
The steps to take when the application is needed are
as follows. Simply tap the screen thrice, to trigger the alert and three
texts and emails are sent immediately to family members and friends
designated by the user.
Each text and email contains your GPS position and a
map showing where you are. The application also allows the user send his
or her location information to your family and friends via Blackberry
Messenger.
It also comes with an optional sound alert that makes
a shrill noise when triggered, momentarily putting off any potential
attacker and alerting passers-by to your distress.
iKey Track and security on the other hand is a newly
developed car alarm system that works with most smartphones. When
installed in a car, the user can control and check the car’s status
through your Smartphone anywhere in the world with a GSM reception.
If the vehicle is ever stolen, with just one click, iKey will locate the car using Google Maps.
Some of its features include remote Arm, Disarm,
Status Check, Engine Cut-Off, Trigger Alert, engine Start & Stop all
in the palms of the hands through your BlackBerry Smartphone. It works
best with a 3G enabled Smart phone or internet connection.
Finally, iScared Personal Security application for
android phones automatically calls/texts your friend/loved ones when you
feel threatened, periodically sends your location to people and picks
separate contacts (one for texts and one to be called). On how best to
use the application, the makers say, “When you know you will have to
walk through an area you know is not the best place to be, use iScared.
Simply start the application and hold down your thumb/finger and when
you feel threatened just put the phone in your pocket or purse. The
application will then start a user defined countdown and if the disarm
button is not pressed before the countdown ends iScared will call your
contact chosen; send a text and periodic location updates. This will
continue until it is disarmed.”
- Note-some of the applications highlighted in the text are only available for download for a fee.
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