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    Theft/tracking software

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by indigo_dc, Jul 25, 2011.

  1. indigo_dc

    indigo_dc Notebook Enthusiast

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    Recently had my laptop stolen and although the replacement cash will be nice, I want to stop it happening again.

    Any suggestions for software that can do this? A colleague said there is no point since the laptop will be wiped before it ever hits the internet again :(
     
    indigo_dc, Jul 25, 2011
    #1
  2. afhstingray

    afhstingray Notebook Prophet

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    depends on the model, some have the feature built into the BIOS, so even a wipe of the hard drive will not disable it
     
    afhstingray, Jul 25, 2011
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  3. lmanlo

    lmanlo Notebook Consultant

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    lmanlo, Jul 25, 2011
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  4. linuxwanabe

    linuxwanabe Notebook Evangelist

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    Some notebooks have a tracking feature in BIOS that works through 3G even if the notebook is shut down. In general, such features tend to be pointless, much like the LoJack type services that were sold during the carjacking epidemic of the early 90s. Yes, you can get "LoJack for Laptop," but what's the point really? Waste of money. Concentrate on your own personal safety. Be aware in public places, and even at work. Don't forget to take common sense steps to keep your home secure.

    Oh, and an old fashioned Kensington lock is deterrent against casual thieves - a much better deterrent than a pointless tracking service.
     
    linuxwanabe, Jul 25, 2011
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  5. Feral1

    Feral1 Notebook Consultant

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    My sympathy for your loss. I too had my lappy stolen, what a drag. The bright side is my home insurance paid for it and I bought a more powerful machine. I am now more careful now so don't expect it to reoccur. I do not believe a Lojack would be of value. I have given some thought to using Trucrypt on my drive to prevent someone from using it. I don't have anything of secret nature or high value on the machine. I did change all my passwords within an hour fo loosing the machine. I do not let the machine remember my passwords so I have not seen any evidence that someone accessed my financial info.
     
    Feral1, Jul 25, 2011
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  6. Orlbuckeye

    Orlbuckeye Notebook Evangelist

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    Here is some free software:
    http://www.locatemylaptop.com/

    Well one thing everyone should do is register their system. That will link the serial number to you. If the machine is sent to be repaired the serial numbers are checked.
     
    Orlbuckeye, Jul 26, 2011
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  7. MrDJ

    MrDJ Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    MrDJ, Jul 26, 2011
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