The recent surge in car hijackings across South Africa has left vehicle owners increasingly concerned about safety.

“At Barker Insurance, we understand the importance of proactive measures to enhance vehicle security and provide peace of mind to our valued customers,” says Rhett Barker, CEO of Barker Insurance. “That's why we're encouraging our clients to download the Matrix Vehicle Tracking app, designed to keep you one step ahead of potential threats.”

The Matrix Vehicle Tracking app is for both Beame and Matrix clients.

Rhett says that with car hijackings on the rise, it's more crucial than ever for vehicle owners to prioritise security measures.

“Traditional driving skills, are no longer sufficient in today's environment. Personal security now requires the adept use of modern technology, such as the Matrix tracking app, to safeguard your vehicle and peace of mind.”

The functionality of the app will differ depending on whether you have a Barker Beame or a Matrix device.

The Barker Beame is a recovery device that recovers your vehicle in the event of theft or hijacking. The sooner Beame is notified of the theft, the better the chance of recovery.

The Matrix Vehicle Tracking app offers the following benefits.

For Beame customers:

1. Unit status and battery life monitoring

Stay informed about the health of your tracking device with the ability to check unit status and battery life directly from the app. Alert your Barker consultant if your unit status or battery indicator is not in the green and a replacement device will be arranged at no cost.

2. Assist button

Remembering names and numbers is always tricky in stressful situations. The app features an Assist button for emergencies, providing immediate support when needed most.

3. General location

Although Barker Beame is a recovery device and does not provide pinpoint positioning information on your app, the Matrix Vehicle Tracking app can provide the general location of where your vehicle unit last updated.

In addition to the above, Barker Matrix customers have the below additional features, to mention a few:

1. Crash Alert

2. Live Tracking

3. Panic Button

4. Trip Monitoring for Logbooks

5. Border Alerts & No-Go Zones

6. Backup Beame Unit

How to get started

Getting started with your Matrix Vehicle Tracking app is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Android or iOS store to download the Matrix Vehicle Tracking app.

2. Once downloaded, WhatsApp "Hi" to 087 240 6262 to receive your login details via an interactive message.

3. Once you've received your login details, log in to the app and explore its features. You'll have access to all your vehicles and the Assist button for emergencies.

Note: The functionality will differ depending on whether you have a Barker Beame or a Matrix device.

4. Check unit status and battery life to ensure your device functions optimally. If either is not green, contact Barker Insurance for assistance.

“At Barker Insurance, we're committed to providing you with the tools and support needed to protect what matters most to you,” says Rhett. “With the Matrix Vehicle Tracking app, you can stay one step ahead, safeguarding your vehicle and peace of mind.”

Download your vehicle tracking app today.