Protect your Android phone from pickpockets

(MoneyWatch) 

These days, practically your whole life -- professional and personal -- may be stored on your phone. That's convenient, but it's also dangerous. In New York City alone, for example, 40 percent of all thefts involved cell phones. That adds up to about 11,000 stolen phones in one (admittedly huge) city alone.

If your phone of choice is Android, you can take some precautions with Secure Anywhere Mobile. This Android app from software maker Webroot is designed to protect your identity if your phone is lost or stolen. It also can help you track it down.

Once you know your phone is missing, you can send a signal to remotely lock the device so it can't be used by anyone else. You can also erase all personal information, including contacts, email, text messages, and other data. The software can even display the phone's location on a map to help you (or the police) zero in on its whereabouts.

Did you just lose your phone, or did it disappear moments ago? Secure Anywhere can sound a loud alarm to help you locate it in, say, the car seat cushion it has fallen into -- or to unnerve a thief who just lifted it out of your pocket. It also can help save you from yourself. Secure Anywhere can send a temporary password to a family member or friend to help you regain access to your phone if you forget your password.

Webroot Secure Anywhere for Android is available for $19.99 in the Android Market. A limited version of the app is available for free.