In the face of rising concerns over identity theft and smartphone-related crimes, a groundbreaking solution has emerged to tackle the issue head-on. The Asset Lifecycle Protection Service, known as ALPS, is an innovative app designed to combat smartphone theft, fraud, and trafficking, providing a secure shield for mobile users and operators alike.
A recent global survey conducted between November 2022 and January 2023 revealed that an alarming seven out of ten respondents felt increasingly vulnerable to identity theft compared to previous years. Despite this concern, only 53% believed their current security measures were sufficient to protect against identity theft.
ALPS enters the scene as a hardware-backed, cutting-edge solution that can be loaded onto smartphones during the manufacturing process. By doing so, mobile operators gain the power to remotely lock any of their devices from anywhere in the world, effectively preventing unauthorized access.
In the United States alone, over four million pre-paid smartphones fall victim to theft, leading to staggering losses of around $900 million for mobile operators, according to the GSMA. ALPS offers MNOs a secure cloud-based platform to control a device’s modems, allowing them to restrict or enable communications in cases of fraudulent use.
The benefits of ALPS extend beyond thwarting theft and fraud. The platform also helps identify devices that have been purchased and activated but are later sold in different markets, often indicating identity fraud. Moreover, it proves valuable in protecting leased devices by preventing their premature resale before the lease terms are completed.
One of ALPS’ standout features is its hardware-secured, frictionless remote device lock and unlock capabilities. This functionality is scalable across different device ranges and multiple Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), enhancing the user experience for consumers and reducing operational costs for operators.
ALPS has emerged as a more effective and user-friendly alternative to traditional manual unlock codes. It goes beyond just stolen phones and can also lock legally purchased phones and companion devices in cases of recalls or missing payments.
As smartphone theft and identity fraud continue to pose significant threats, ALPS is poised to revolutionize the industry by providing a cloud-based security solution that benefits both mobile users and operators. With ALPS on their side, consumers can enjoy enhanced peace of mind, while operators can safeguard their investments, protect revenue, and drive further subscriber growth.
