Senforce on Monday announced a new version of its endpoint security suite that now features encryption.

The Endpoint Security Suite 3.5, available now, includes the new Senforce Encryption Solution that encrypts files or folders stored on laptops, flash drives and USB storage devices, according to company officials.

USB devices such as thumb drives have been used to steal corporate data -- known as "thumbsucking," a term Senforce coined -- when users copy corporate files onto their devices without authorization. "Slurping" refers to the same process using an iPod.

By automatically encrypting all data that is saved to removable storage, corporations can be sure company or sensitive information is secure even when transferred, they say. The encrypted files are password-protected so that users can grant access to authorized third parties.

Encryption keys are managed through a distributed security policy, so that enforcing encryption is transparent to users and easily implemented by administrators, they say. Policies are captured in XML, encrypted and distributed to all of a company's endpoint devices so that enforcement of the policy is executed regardless of where the device may be, and whether or not it's attached to the corporate network.

Other new features in Version 3.5 include a firewall; wireless security features such as controlling when, how and where users connect; application controls to make sure only approved programs run on corporate devices; automatic activation of certain corporate applications, such as VPNs or antivirus, before the device connects to the company network; and forensic-reporting capabilities to help companies adhere to regulations.

Senforce's Endpoint Security Suite 3.5 is priced at US$69.99 per node.