VeriSign sells mobile messaging unit

VeriSign is selling its European mobile messaging unit to Sinon Invest Holding for an undisclosed amount. The unit is the latest in a series of non-core assets the company has sold. VeriSign says it intends to focus on its core businesses of internet infrastructure, domain registry, online security and identity protection.

VeriSign acquired its mobile messaging unit in 2006 from 3united Mobile Solutions for an estimated USD65m. It employs about 100 people and was recently rebranded Mobile Messaging Solutions. The company says it will continue to offer mobile commerce and messaging services, as well as mobile content products.

Though VeriSign recently bought security specialist Certicom for USD72m, the company is mainly focusing on selling assets. It sold its remaining share of mobile content company Jamba to News Corp and expects to divest 12 other non-core units in the short term.