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Verizon app helps you to remotely delete personal data if phone is stolen

Your smartphone is just like your home PC, vulnerable to security breaches. That’s why Verizon Wireless, which has its Midwest headquarters in Schaumburg, said it has launched the Verizon Mobile Security app to help customers protect their Android smartphones if they fall into the wrong hands.

The app, created in cooperation with McAfee and Asurion, allows users to remotely locate, lock or even wipe away data from the lost or stolen phone. It’s available through the Verizon Channel in Google Play.

McAfee, a firm that provides security software to consumers and businesses, issues a report each quarter that outlines the growing number of threats to mobile phones and that inspired Verizon to provide the new app, said Verizon spokeswoman Andrea Meyer.

“We’re continuing to work to improve security on the network side,” Meyer said.

The app offers three types of downloads, where each will charge against your download time. The basic app is free and offers anti-virus protection from McAfee to detec viruses and malware and warn customers of suspicious websites. The premium app offers the basic plus an alert that tells you which apps have the ability to access, store or transmit data to or from you device. It’s available for $1.99 per month per line. It also allows you remote access to wipe out data, should your phone be lost or stolen. The premium app with Total Equipment Coverage offers users who already have TEC to add $1 per month per line for the app. TEC combines the wireless protection plan for lost or stolen or damaged devices with a Verizon extended warranty for mechanical or electrical defects after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

To remotely wipe your device, you’ll need to go to your PC, access My Verizon and follow the directions on the dashboard, Meyer said.

Surfing: Geneva-based Fox Valley SuddenValues has been working with local businesses for about six years to provide consumers with savings and event notices. As a result, a company launched FoxValleyILDeals.com to offer a new local deal every week. Several additional deals for stores and travel will be available every day.

타 Schaumburg-based Loanlook.com, which launched last year, said the student Web portal now can aggregate private student loan information in addition to federal loan and grant data. Loanlook users can view and build repayment plans around their federal student loan and grant data through various self-service tools and contact loan counselors through WebChat and a toll-free number.

타 The Promenade Bolingbrook Shopping Center has launched a multimedia website that allows shoppers to interact during and after their visit to the center. Shoppers are able to sign up with their preferences on how they would like to receive communication via E-club, Mobile Club, Facebook or Twitter. The site also integrates Shoptopia Network, a digital network to connect shoppers with malls, retailers and brands.

타 Lisle-based Midwest Real Estate Data, the area’s multiple listing service for properties on sale, has formed a partnership that offers its real estate professionals MRED Social IDX, a Facebook social listing search app from Appla.bz, which allows them to add a property search directly to their Facebook business page.

타 Follow Anna Marie Kukec on LinkedIn and Facebook and as AMKukec on Twitter. Write to her at akukec@dailyherald.com.

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