A South African security company has launched a smartphone personal security application that it claims is the first of its kind in the country.
ADT Security's app, FindU, is a mobile application that turns a mobile device into a personal security and monitoring system. ADT's Kevin Louw explains that the app is downloaded onto the smartphone and, once activated, immediately begins monitoring the user's location via GPS. GPS coordinates are sent to a monitoring centre every 15 seconds, as well as a live video feed when an alert is sent to enable the monitoring centre to see any potential dangerous situation the user might be in.
"This allows us to send the correct response pertaining to your emergency." He says response services include armed response, fire services, sea and mountain rescue services, medical assistance and the SAPS response. He notes the footage captured by the app is kept on record and can later be requested, for example, as evidence in a criminal case.
The app allows the user to choose how he/she calls for help and an alert can be sent simply by shaking the phone, swiping a finger across the screen or double-tapping the screen. Louw says customers can turn off the application in safe situations, such as when at work, and turn it on to have it running in the background when needed.
"At the moment, the app is available for iPhone, any Android device and BlackBerry, and we hope to soon have it available for Windows phones as well."
Louw says the service is currently only available to ADT clients, but will be available to non-ADT clients from the beginning of October.
"This way we can offer something extra to our clients, so they can have security wherever they are in the country and not just at their homes."
The app is available from ADT for a monthly service fee on a month-to-month basis.
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