So how do you prevent your device from joining these horrifying statistics? Beyond keeping your portable gadgets under your constant supervision, there are a few simple tools you can use.
Cables
Almost all laptops now have an industry-standard security slot. Cables that hook into that slot can anchor the laptop to a table or desk. The average cost for one is $35 to $50. The real benefit of these locks is in shared or well-trafficked spaces like dorm rooms or cubicles where a stealthy thief could slip an untethered laptop into a bag in just seconds. Cables don't provide 100% fool proof security, as the cable can be cut, but they work more of a deterrent.
Cables
As tablets become more popular, there are cases that lock onto the tablet and then hook into these standard laptop cables for similar protection.
Alarms
Another option is a laptop alarm which are about the size of a deck of cards. It attaches to the laptop and plugs into the USB port. If you need to leave your device for a few minutes (or hours) you can arm the alarm. Then, if someone tries to move it, a loud piercing alarm goes off, so loudly obnoxious that a thief would abandon his attempt in a hurry.The only problem I see is that one could just plug the USB.
Tracking Programs
If your laptop has been stolen, you can track it's location using tracking software.
Lojack costs about $40 a year, there is a free version of Prey available.
Find My iPhone offers free tracking services for iPhones, iPods, iPads, Macs and PC laptops. Lookout provides a free tracking program for Android devices. These programs will let you clear your device data remotely so that the thief can't raid your information to steal your identity.
Data Back-Up
One important note: think about the value of your data. For most people, it's worth more than the device itself. Backing it up means that all the hours of work won't be lost along with your hardware. Automatic backup programs like Carbonite or Mozy cost about $60 a year and, in combination with a physical back up of media (purchased music), they can fully protect the time, information, and media on your device.
orig posted on 9/6/2012
I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. rastreo satelital de autos
ReplyDeleteThis is a well-written and timely post, especially considering how overlooked physical security can be in today’s tech-heavy environments. Many people assume that digital safeguards are enough, but as you’ve pointed out, theft or physical tampering can quickly compromise even the most secure systems. The mention of tracking systems and access control was especially relevant—those steps are often the first line of defense.
ReplyDeleteTo complement this, it’s also worth looking into how background threats—like spyware and malicious scripts—can sneak in even when the physical system seems untouched. This resource on identifying and eliminating covert digital threats that drain performance and compromise security adds a digital layer to the conversation on protection.
Speed also matters when reacting to threats or system failures. I found this article on how fast-response tech services reduce damage and downtime to be quite relevant for organizations relying on uninterrupted access to their data.
And for users needing urgent device repairs or troubleshooting, this write-up on why fast, same-day service makes a difference in critical situations helps explain the growing demand for instant support models.
There’s also a brief but useful post here on simple fixes that prevent recurring tech disruptions, which ties into your point about proactive security and maintenance.
On the business side, I’d suggest reading this piece on how fast tech support translates to time and cost savings. It shows how physical security and responsive IT support go hand in hand.
Lastly, this quick post summarizes why proactive support prevents small issues from becoming bigger problems, which reinforces your core message on staying ahead of threats—both physical and digital.
Thanks again for shedding light on this crucial topic. It’s a great reminder that real-world security is just as important as what’s running behind the screen.