Protect your assets with HMD Softlock
Remotely lock your financed assets to prevent fraudulent use.
Secure and hassle-free EMI payments
HMD Softlock is a service developed in-house by HMD which enables remote locking of assets to protect financing and leasing companies from fraud and theft. Through the HMD Softlock platform, companies can remotely lock their financed or leased assets in case of late payments or if the asset is reported stolen.
When an asset is locked, anyone attempting to steal or commit fraud will be unable to use it. As a result, HMD Softlock provides a secure way to guarantee monthly EMI payments while minimising financial risks.
How it works
HMD Softlock operates on a straightforward principle: remote locking. With just a few clicks, you can initiate a secure lock on your financed or leased assets, effectively preventing unauthorized access or movement.
Late payments no longer equate to a threat, and the fear of asset theft becomes a thing of the past. Our user-friendly platform ensures that asset protection is within your reach, anytime and from anywhere.
Flexible operating modes to meet your business needs
The purpose of the HMD Softlock solution is to give a financing party the ability to remotely lock financed assets if the end-user defaults on payments (Installments model), or to allow a user to get an asset that is by default locked and can only be used by purchasing usage credits (PAYG model).
Installments model
The asset is unlocked by default; however, it can be locked for a variety of reasons, including late payments by the user.
This model is best if the user is expected to pay the instalments on a regular basis, such as monthly, over a set period.
Pay-as-you-go model
The asset is locked by default and can be unlocked via credit purchase by the user.
Using this model makes sense if the user is only able to purchase asset usage time on an as-needed basis.
Network lock
Using the network lock feature, users can remotely lock their HMD Softlock enabled devices to a specific network operator's network, eliminating the need for manual SIM lock.
This feature can be combined with Instalments or PAYG model.
M-KOPA utilising HMD Softlock for smartphone fleet
M-KOPA, a prominent and fast-growing fintech platform, provides connected asset financing solutions for smartphones and other assets in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, and Ghana.
Using the HMD Softlock solution, the company can remotely lock its smartphones in the event of late payments or fraud risks. As a result, M-KOPA has been able to significantly increase device sales while reducing financial risks.
“HMD’s Softlock solution have allowed us to rapidly scale up our smartphone solution across Sub-Saharan Africa. Regardless of volume, the technology is robust and reliable, and the team are both knowledgeable and accommodating to our needs as a growing business.”
HMD Softlock's remote locking technology opens new market possibilities
In HMD's vision, the Softlock approach can be applied to all kinds of industries and products in the future. One such example is modern motorbikes, which may require financing programs similar to those used for smartphones. This paves the way for the future development of a customised Softlock solution for other asset financing programs.
If you're looking for such a solution for your product lines, get in touch and we'll discuss what HMD Softlock can do for your business.
Trusted security
As our user base expands globally and new licenses are added each month, building and maintaining trust is paramount to us.
Our commitment to our customers is to provide strong security that prevents fraud and hacking attempts, as well as a transparent privacy policy. Compliant with GDPR, Softlock's platform supports the best security practices.
Explore questions related to HMD Softlock
What is HMD Softlock?
What is HMD Softlock?
HMD Softlock is a service developed by HMD Global that allows financing and leasing companies to remotely lock their financed or leased assets to prevent fraud and theft. It provides a secure way to protect assets and guarantee monthly EMI payments.
What does "softlock" mean?
When a device is soft locked, it is not completely disabled or "bricked." Instead, certain key features are disabled or turned off. However, users can still make emergency calls and access specific apps, such as the payment app.
It is important to note that the user cannot reset the device as the lock has been designed to be tamper-proof. Once the required payment is received, the device will be unlocked and fully functional again.
How scalable is HMD Softlock for businesses of different sizes?
HMD Softlock is designed to be scalable and can accommodate businesses of different sizes. Whether it's a small-scale operation or a large enterprise, the technology is robust and adaptable to meet the needs of growing businesses.
What are the benefits of HMD Softlock?
- Increased asset sales: HMD Softlock enables low-income and underbanked customers to purchase assets on a pay-as-you-go or installment basis, expanding the customer base.
- Secure sales model: It lowers the risk of late payments and asset theft, enabling various asset purchase and usage models in a competitive landscape.
- Secure asset logistics: HMD Softlock reduces the risk of theft during shipping and while assets are in transit or at the store.
- Protection against insurance fraud: It protects against fraudulent insurance claims and unauthorized sales of assets on the grey market.
- Trusted partner: HMD Softlock has a dedicated team of qualified professionals to assist with managing your company's needs.
Getting started
How can I get started with HMD Softlock?
If you are interested in implementing HMD Softlock for your company or learning more about its features, benefits, and implementation process, you can get in touch with the knowledgeable team at HMD. They will assist you further and provide the necessary information to get started.
What are the operating models available with HMD Softlock?
HMD Softlock offers flexible operating modes for your business needs:
- Instalments model: The asset is unlocked by default but can be locked for reasons such as late payments. This model is suitable for regular payment schedules, such as monthly instalments over a set period.
- Pay-as-you-go model: The asset is locked by default and can be unlocked by purchasing usage credits. This model is suitable for users who need asset usage time on an as-needed basis.
- Network lock: Using the network lock feature, users can remotely lock their HMD Softlock enabled devices to a specific network operator's network, eliminating the need for manual SIM lock. This feature can be combined with Instalments or PAYG model.
How does HMD Softlock help prevent late payments?
HMD Softlock allows financing parties to remotely lock assets in the event of late payments. By locking the asset, it restricts its usage and serves as an incentive for users to make timely payments to avoid disruptions in asset functionality.
How does HMD Softlock address challenges faced by financing companies?
HMD Softlock helps financing companies overcome challenges such as payment defaults, fraud, and the risk of theft or loss. It simplifies the process of recovering outstanding payments, prevents fraudulent cases, and provides secure asset logistics to minimize theft risks.
Asset locking
Can HMD Softlock be used for assets other than smartphones?
At present, HMD Softlock is only compatible with HMD devices.
HMD Global envisions expanding the application of the Softlock approach to various industries and products in the future. The ultimate goal is to broaden the scope of HMD Softlock to meet the distinct requirements of different industries and use cases.
Can HMD Softlock be used with other device manufacturers?
No, at the moment, HMD Softlock is only supported by HMD devices.
Can HMD Softlock be used for Android TVs?
Support for Android TV is currently unavailable.
Let's get you set up with remote locking
HMD Softlock's scope is constantly expanding, with plans to expand into new industries and use cases. Contact our team to learn more about the benefits of HMD Softlock for your business.
Thanks for reaching out. We'll get back to you as soon as we can.