McAfee Launches Kernel-level Whitelisting Solution for Android

McAfee on Monday launched a new whitelisting security solution for Android based embedded systems that resides in the Android kernel.

Dubbed McAfee Application Control for Android, the solution provides protection from the installation or execution of a malicious application on an Android-based device. Designed to help developers integrate enforceable security and tamper proof technology for Android-Based devices, the solution also provides protection at the application layer.

“McAfee is the only security technology provider that provides enforceable security by residing in the Android kernel space. As Android kernel has been adopted on core Linux platform, it was a natural ground for us to extend our whitelisting solution capabilities to Android,” said Rishi Bhargava vice president of product management, Embedded Security at McAfee. “As Android continues to grow in its adoption, McAfee is committed to making this platform as secure and trusted as other common embedded developer platforms.”

Typically, most Android security solutions reside at the user level, leaving devices somewhat vulnerable to system-level attacks, an issue McAfee addresses with its kernel residing security solution.

“McAfee Embedded Control blocks unauthorized applications and changes on fixed-function, point-of-service infrastructures, including retail devices, medical devices, industrial control systems, office equipment, gaming devices, automotive, and various military and aerospace devices,” the company explained in a statement.

More information on McAfee Embedded Control is available here.