The Need to Know

Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: 28 November 2025

1. Introduction

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern all applications, approvals, device agreements, deposits, monthly instalments, and related services (“Services”) offered by Airtel Connect.

By applying for a device, paying a deposit, or using any Airtel Connect Service, you agree to these Terms.

If you do not agree, do not use our Services.

2. Definitions

• “Airtel Connect / The Company” refers to the device-financing and supply service.

• “Client / Customer / You” refers to any approved applicant.

• “Device” means any smartphone, tablet, laptop, computer or related hardware supplied under a contract.

• “Contract” means the approved monthly repayment agreement.

• “Deposit” refers to the required upfront payment (20%).

• “Blocking / Disablement” means remote software or network-level actions that limit or lock the device.

• “Default” means failure to pay the agreed instalment by the due date.

3. Eligibility & Approval

3.1 All clients (including blacklisted clients) may apply.
3.2 Approval is based on internal vetting, affordability, risk assessment, and verification of personal information.
3.3 Airtel Connect reserves the right to decline any application without explanation.
3.4 False or fraudulent information will result in immediate cancellation.

4. Deposit & Activation

4.1 A 20% deposit is required before any device is released or contract activated.
4.2 The deposit is non-refundable once the device has been collected or delivered.
4.3 Deposit payment signifies acceptance of these Terms.
4.4 Devices remain the property of Airtel Connect until the contract is fully paid.

5. Monthly Payments

5.1 Monthly instalments are payable via debit order or EFT on the date agreed upon approval.
5.2 Failure to pay on time constitutes default.
5.3 Late payments may incur penalties, service fees, or both.

6. Device Blocking, Restrictions & Remote Disablement

This is the critical section you requested — written strongly and defensively.

6.1 Airtel Connect uses software, network-level tools, IMEI restrictions, or third-party systems to block, lock, limit, or disable devices in case of:

• Non-payment

• Repeated late payment

• Fraudulent behaviour

• Device tampering

• Repossession avoidance

• Violation of these Terms

6.2 If a payment is missed, Airtel Connect may, without further notice, apply any of the following measures:

• Lock the device

• Restrict outgoing calls/data

• Disable the device

• Trigger IMEI blacklisting

• Suspend warranties or support services

• Prevent resale or reactivation of the device

6.3 The device cannot be fully unlocked until all outstanding amounts, penalties, and reconnection fees are paid.
6.4 Attempting to bypass, unlock, jailbreak, or remove the blocking system is strictly prohibited and constitutes fraud.
6.5 Airtel Connect is not liable for any loss of data or functionality experienced during blocking.

7. Ownership & Title

7.1 Devices remain the property of Airtel Connect until the contract is settled in full.
7.2 If default persists, Airtel Connect may:

• Repossess the device

• Hand the account to collections

• Blacklist the device with insurers or networks

• List the client with credit bureaus

8. Delivery, Collection & Risk

8.1 Devices may be collected or delivered after deposit and approval.
8.2 Risk of loss or theft transfers to the client upon handover.
8.3 The client is responsible for insurance.

9. Warranties & Returns

9.1 Devices carry a manufacturer warranty only.
9.2 Airtel Connect does not cover water damage, physical damage, or tampering.
9.3 Warranty claims must follow the manufacturer’s process.

10. Customer Obligations

You agree to:

• Pay instalments on time

• Use the device responsibly

• Maintain accurate contact details

• Not sell, pawn, or transfer the device until fully paid

• Report theft or loss immediately

• Not attempt to disable our blocking system

Failure to comply results in termination, blocking, or legal action.

11. Default, Collection & Legal Action

11.1 If instalments remain unpaid, Airtel Connect may:

• Block the device

• Charge reconnection fees

• Engage debt collectors

• List your profile at credit bureaus

• Initiate legal recovery actions

• Repossess the device

11.2 All legal, tracing, collection, and administrative costs will be added to your account.

12. Contract Duration & Cancellation

12.1 Contracts run for the period stated on your approval letter (e.g., 12, 18, or 24 months).
12.2 Early cancellation requires full settlement of the outstanding balance.
12.3 Airtel Connect may cancel the contract immediately for:

• Fraud

• Misrepresentation

• Non-payment

• Abuse of services

• Tampering with blocking systems

13. Limitation of Liability

Airtel Connect is not responsible for:

• Data loss due to device blocking

• Business loss caused by late payment suspension

• Software updates from third-party vendors

• Manufacturer defects

• Network outages

• Device incompatibility

Liability is limited to the maximum extent allowed by law.

14. Privacy & Data Use

14.1 Airtel Connect processes personal information for the purpose of:

• Application vetting

• Credit assessment

• Payment processing

• Fraud prevention

• Device blocking technology

• Legal compliance
  14.2 Data may be shared with:

• Credit bureaus

• Verification agencies

• Debt collectors

• Law enforcement (where required)

A full Privacy Policy can be provided separately.

15. Amendments

These Terms may be updated at any time. Continued use of the device constitutes acceptance.

16. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa.