Adapted by:
Javier Pastor
Senior WriterComputer scientist turned tech journalist. I've written about almost everything related to technology, but I specialize in hardware, operating systems and cryptocurrencies. I like writing about tech so much that I do it both for Xataka and Incognitosis, my personal blog.
Karen Alfaro
WriterCommunications professional with a decade of experience as a copywriter, proofreader, and editor. As a travel and science journalist, I've collaborated with several print and digital outlets around the world. I'm passionate about culture, music, food, history, and innovative technologies.
Protector might be the most American app ever: It lets users hire an armed bodyguard on demand, much like Uber. Some have already dubbed it “Uber with guns.”
Security for everyone. According to its creators, Protector “makes private security available to the general public in an on-demand fashion.” While bodyguards are typically reserved for celebrities and high-profile figures, this app allows anyone to access their services with just a few taps.
Available in New York and Los Angeles. Protector has been around for a while but was officially launched in New York and Los Angeles. Early users on the App Store have called for its expansion to other U.S. cities.
$100 per hour, booked in advance. Users must book at least five hours in advance, with hourly rates starting at $100. The app offers a selection of bodyguards to choose from.
Escort vehicles and dress code options. Clients can customize their security experience, selecting one or more escort vehicles and even choosing their bodyguard’s attire—either a formal suit, shirt, and jacket or a more relaxed “tactical casual” look.
Professional security personnel. On its X account, the company refers to its security personnel as Protectors. According to Protector, all of them are active or retired law enforcement officers who hold H.R. 218 (LEOSA) firearms permits. Some highlight their backgrounds in SWAT teams or military operations.
Situations of all kinds. A promotional video for Protector features footage of an attack on former UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, suggesting that a bodyguard could have prevented the tragedy. The video also demonstrates how Protectors respond in high-risk situations.
A startup by a former Meta employee. According to Gizmodo, Protector was founded by Nick Sarath, who previously worked as a product designer at Meta. Before launching Protector in Oct. 2024, he attempted to compete with Instagram by creating a social media startup called Poparazzi, which ultimately failed.
Image | Protector
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