Posted inConsumer Tech

First anti-virus solutions for smart TVs

Ocean Blue Software and Sophos create AV solutions to protect internet ready televisions

LCD-TV market to grow in 2012
LCD-TV market to grow in 2012

Ocean Blue Software (OBS) and Sophos have developed the first anti-virus solution to protect smart TVs.

The cloud-based security solution combines Sophos Labs anti-virus expertise and OBS set top box solutions to provide protection for internet connected televisions. According to Futuresource Consulting, over 80% of new televisions and set-top boxes will be Internet-ready by 2015, and with a large proportion of these running Linux or Android, they will be capable of downloading and running remote applications and therefore vulnerable to malware.

“Almost all new connected TV products are at risk from malware” said Ken Helps, founder and CEO of Ocean Blue Software. “This partnership with Sophos will allow us to provide manufacturers with middleware already prepared to defend their products against attack.”

“Most consumers don’t realize that Smart TVs are just as vulnerable to threats as other devices,” said Michael Rogers, Vice president, global alliances and OEM. “This partnership with Ocean Blue Software provides tremendous opportunity to allow consumers to take advantage of the features Smart TVs offer, while ensuring their home networks remain secure.”

The anti-virus solution will be available as either a part of the Ocean Blue middleware or as a stand-alone client for solutions with their own middleware.