A new app called Protector has just launched on the Apple App Store, and it’s quickly gaining attention. Often called “Uber with guns,” the app allows users to book on-demand bodyguards along with a black car for their ride, offering an extra layer of security for those who need it.
Currently, the service is only available in Los Angeles and New York, but it’s already causing a stir. The app lets users pick the kind of bodyguard they want, how they should dress, and even what type of car suits the occasion. The bodyguards are all highly trained, with backgrounds in law enforcement or the military. But it comes at a price.
To use the service, there’s an annual membership fee of $129, and booking a bodyguard will cost at least $1,000 for a five-hour minimum. The company plans to remove the minimum soon, but the $200-per-hour rate will stay.
According to law enforcement expert Bruce Thomas, bodyguards must be fully licensed in California, including having a guard card and a firearms permit. He also recommends verifying the background of the bodyguard, asking whether they’ve been through a bodyguard or protection school.
The app claims all its protectors are licensed under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act, and they are insured for liability purposes. But experts say consumers should always double-check.
While the service is expensive, it might be worth it for those who need extra protection while out and about. Whether you’re heading to a high-profile event or just want peace of mind, Protector promises to deliver high-level security at your fingertips.
