T-Mobile to preload anti-malware app

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BELLEVUE, Wash., Oct. 25 (UPI) -- Cellular provider T-Mobile says it will preload selected Android smartphones with a free security app meant to protect customers against malware and viruses.

The wireless carrier announced Wednesday that most of its smartphone and tablets would come with the Automatic App Security app preinstalled next year, Mashable reported.

The app was developed by mobile security firm Lookout, which partnered with T-Mobile to offer the service.

"T-Mobile wants our customers to enjoy the full benefits of the smartphone or tablet experience, including worry-free access to applications, which is why we are taking extra measures to protect their devices, privacy and data," Ian McKerlich, T-Mobile USA's vice president of product management, said in a statement.

Lookout will scan all downloaded apps on T-Mobile customers' smartphones and tablets as well as conduct weekly scans for potential threats.

Users will be notified if an app is identified app as "potentially harmful" and will be provided with instructions on how to uninstall it, T-Mobile said.

The LG Optimus L9 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 will be the first devices to come with the preloaded Automatic App Security when they become available in the coming weeks, the carrier said.