Vodafone has launched a new security solution for its customers in the form of Vodafone Red Shield, which includes insurance coverage of up to INR50,000 (US$773) for smartphones owned for six months or less.

The smartphone insurance is underwritten by New India Assurance Company Ltd. and includes coverage from theft and damage. In order to enjoy the service, customers must download the Vodafone Red Shield application, which will conduct an assessment to determine if the user’s unit is eligible. The subscription costs INR720 (US$11.10) per year, which will be charged to the customer’s monthly bill in 12 equal instalments.

Arvinder Singh Sachdev, Vodafone business head for Kolkata & rest of Bengal commented at the service’s launch: “Our own customer research has revealed that most mobile phone buyers tend to either be unaware about handset insurance or don’t seem to have it as a priority/top of mind factor while purchasing a new smartphone. To bring larger numbers of our customers within the protective cover of Vodafone Red Shield, we have extended the facility to handsets up to six months old.”

Aside from insurance, Red Shield also includes malware protection and other security features. The service is currently available for Vodafone Red postpaid customers only.


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