Men (43%) are more likely to have had their smartphone or tablet lost, stolen or damaged beyond use compared to women (39%). 18-34 year olds are particularly prone to loss with 58% reporting loss, theft or damage.
“The findings highlight the importance of insurance and warranty programs from the consumer perspective,” commented Paul Prendergast, CEO, Inhance Technology. “However, with such high levels of potential claims, it also emphasises the importance for wireless retailers, carriers and insurance firms to have the most sophisticated technology in place to reduce claims and minimise fraud.”
The Inhance Technology survey, which was conducted by iReach Insights, finds that 46% of UK consumers are most likely to lose their mobile device while commuting compared to 40% in the US. Over a third (36%) of UK consumers are most likely to suffer loss of their mobile in a bar or night club compared to 25% in the US.
“This may be due to the higher licensing age for alcohol consumption in the US rather than UK users being more prone to socialising,” commented Paul Prendergast.
Another major difference is that UK consumers (8%) are far less likely to lose their device at home compared to 18% of respondents in the US.
Inhance Technology provides next generation mobile device protection programs to wireless retailers, carriers and insurance providers.
Inhance has over 70 patent applications filed in major markets with two already granted in the areas of device security and tracking, with a number of others due to be granted in the short-term.