Today, Kaspersky Lab announced a new version of its security software for mobile devices, Kaspersky Mobile Security 8.0. According to the company, the application not only provides layers of both proactive and reactive safeguards against data leakage and malware, it makes a stolen phone worthless.

In addition to the usual antivirus and spam-SMS-blocking features, added features include:

A new GPS tracking capabilities to locate mobile devices that have been lost or stolen.

A new encrypted folder to keep sensitive information on the smart mobile device - such as a company's IPO plans or personal Web site passwords - safe from prying eyes.

An enhancement to the SIM Watch feature (more on this below) allows users to remotely delete data stored on their mobile device even if a new SIM card has been installed.

Parental Controls, allowing parents to block communication to and from undesirable contacts, or to limit the smartphone's ability to only contact specified, pre-approved numbers. Parents can also use the smartphone's GPS capabilities to determine their child's location, or to block the installation of mobile software applications.

If a phone has been stolen, the rightful owner can remotely block communications to and from the device, and has the ability to remotely delete all data from the device, preventing contacts or sensitive information from being illegally used or stolen.

In addition, should a thief try to circumvent these GPS tracking and data deletion programs by replacing the device's SIM card, Kaspersky Mobile Security 8.0's SIM Watch will send the rightful owner a message containing the device's new telephone number.

Kaspersky Mobile Security 8.0 is a subscription-based offering available now for purchase through the Kaspersky online store for $29.95 per license.