a system and method is provided for implementing platform security on a consumer electronic device having an open development platform . the device is of the type which includes an abstraction layer operable between device hardware and application software . a secure software agent is provided for embedding within the abstraction layer forming the operating system . a secure store is provided for storing security information unique to one or more instances of the application software . the secure software agent uses the security information for continuous runtime assurance of ongoing operational integrity of the operating system and application software and thus operational integrity of the device .