New anti-theft solution for Galaxy S4 involves real people

What could be more terrifying for a prospective mobile phone thief than to be traced and confronted by real people asking for the stolen gadget back?

At least that's the scenario Absolute Software envisions for its new LoJack security offering for users of Galaxy S4 phones, according to a report on tech site CNET.

"(W)hat you really pay for is the company's team of cybercrime-cracking 'recovery specialists' who will attempt to go out and retrieve your absconded-with phone," CNET said.

It said this is aside from software that allows remote locking and deleting to keep sensitive contents such as photos and passwords from falling into the wrong hands.

Absolute Software, which makes LoJack for Laptops, is making the LoJack for Galaxy S4 the initial offering for its LoJack for Android smartphones software series.

On the other hand, CNET noted Samsung has been pushing security to win over corporations and consumers with concerns about Android security gaps.

CNET said LoJack will be embedded into the Galaxy S4's firmware. It remains dormant but will be activated with a monthly subscription that starts at $29.99 per month.

"(This way, even) if robbers wipe your phone to the factory settings, LoJack is still active, and cannot be removed," CNET said.

LoJack for Android phones may be available as early as June, and is part of its partnership with Samsung, whose strategy is to add security software on its phones. — LBG, GMA News