How to Track a Stolen Laptop

Before the Internet, serial numbers were the best way to prove who a stolen computer belonged to. Now, with IP addresses and laptop tracking software, it’s relatively easy for the police, or in many cases, the owner, to track down a stolen computer. Laptops are more susceptible to theft due to their small size and the fact that they are taken out in public regularly by their owners. Luckily, with the advent of tracking technology, laptop owners can take several steps to help ensure that if their laptop is stolen, they can get it back.

Before we discuss how to track a stolen laptop, let’s focus on prevention. If you take careful measures, you can greatly decrease the chances of your laptop getting stolen. These tips seem like basic common sense but are easy to ignore if the owner becomes too comfortable taking their computer out in public.

1.) Never leave your laptop unattended – We all like to think that the people at the coffee shop are looking out for us when we go to the restroom, but that’s not always the case. Never become too secure or trusting in a public environment. People are easily distracted and may not notice a thief. Or, a thief could be waiting for the right moment to snatch your computer.

2.) Cables and locks – This is a pretty cheap and easy route to take, but definitely not the most effective. Locking your laptop to a desk may deter thieves who are short on time, but there are easy ways around this approach. Thieves can easily damage desks in order to free the laptop without cutting the cable. Plus, you want to know your laptop is safe while you’re on the go. Having a cable is a good tactic, but you need more.

3.) Label your laptop – Let’s say you get up for just a minute, or you accidentally leave your laptop behind on your lunch meeting. The person who finds your laptop is probably honest and would like to get it back to you. Putting your name and contact info on the bottom will ensure that they can contact you. And you will be able to easily prove who you are, making them feel comfortable about returning it to you.

Now, let’s say you need to track a stolen laptop because a dishonest person snatched it up. Luckily, they probably stole it so they could use it. And there are many laptop tracking methods available for you to use in this scenario.

1.) IP address tracking - If you own a Mac, then you are in a tough spot. It’s not possible to track Mac’s unless the thief logs on to the same LAN that you use. So if you own a Mac, it’s best to discard this option and take other precautions. If you own a PC, you should contact your Internet service provider. If the thief obtains an IP address for your stolen computer, the police can track the location of the thief.

2.) Anti-theft software - This is easily the most reliable and safest route to take for stolen laptop tracking. First of all, a thief can’t disable your software without the proper passwords and personal information. There are many options on the market that can save you time and perform several functions. Software can include Wi-Fi positioning technology that will be able to track down your laptop’s location. Webcam support is also available if your laptop has a camera. You can snap a photo of the thief for evidence once they are caught. Some software will even allow you to easily file police reports online with several police departments all across the country. Just search “anti-theft software” and you will realize that you have the capabilities to bring even the most highly skilled thieves to justice. Anti-theft software is definitely a must if you want the best odds of recovering your laptop.

3.) Contact the manufacturer - Some manufacturers do offer tracking in the event your computer is stolen. They may have a stolen laptop database in case the thief is dumb enough to call for technical support. Even if your manufacturer won’t help recover a stolen laptop, it’s a good idea to notify them and the police just in case it gets found.

So now that you know several ways you can prevent theft of your laptop, as well as laptop tracking options, what steps are you going to take? Be sure to take the preventative measures that don’t cost a dime, but also search around for laptop tracking software that fits in your budget and will be effective in the event your laptop is stolen.

Also, if you’re interested in learning more about tracking theft and tools law enforcement use to track thieves, you might want to consider a career in criminal justice. If so, contact Bryan College Online for information about their online Criminal Justice degree.