Blog | G5 Cyber Security

Laptop Security: Tracking & Theft Prevention

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Protect your laptop with a combination of physical security (locks), software tracking tools (pre-installed or added later), and good online habits. Regularly back up your data, know your device’s serial number, and report theft immediately.

1. Physical Security

  1. Laptop Locks: Use a Kensington lock or similar to physically secure your laptop in public places or shared offices. These won’t stop determined thieves but are a good deterrent.
  2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Don’t leave your laptop unattended, even for a moment.
  3. Carry Case: A discreet carry case can make your laptop less visible and harder to grab quickly.

2. Software Tracking Tools

These tools help locate your laptop if it’s stolen. Many operating systems have built-in features, or you can use third-party software.

Windows

  1. Find My Device: Windows has a built-in ‘Find My Device’ feature.
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Find My device.
    • Make sure it’s turned on. You’ll need a Microsoft account linked to your laptop.
    • You can locate your laptop, lock it remotely, or wipe its data from your Microsoft account online.

macOS

  1. Find My Mac: macOS has a similar feature called ‘Find My’.
    • Go to System Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
    • Ensure ‘Find My Mac’ is enabled. You’ll need an Apple ID linked to your laptop.
    • Locate, lock or erase your device from iCloud online.

Third-Party Software

Consider installing third-party tracking software like Prey Project (https://preyproject.com/) for more advanced features.

3. Data Backup

  1. Regular Backups: Regularly back up your important data to an external hard drive, cloud storage (like OneDrive, Google Drive, iCloud), or both.
  2. Automated Backups: Set up automated backups so you don’t have to remember to do it manually.

4. Know Your Device Information

  1. Serial Number: Record your laptop’s serial number and keep it in a safe place (separate from the laptop!). You can usually find this on the bottom of the device or in the original packaging.
    • Windows: Open Command Prompt and type 
      wmic bios get serialnumber

      .

    • macOS: Open Terminal and type 
      system_profiler SPHardwareDataType

      , look for ‘Serial Number’.

  2. Model Number: Also record the model number.
  3. Operating System Details: Note down your operating system version.

5. Reporting Theft

  1. Report to Police: Immediately report the theft to the police and provide them with all relevant information (serial number, model number, OS details).
  2. Report to Your Insurance Company: If you have laptop insurance, file a claim as soon as possible.
  3. Change Passwords: Change passwords for any accounts accessed from the stolen laptop.

6. BIOS Password

Set a strong BIOS password to prevent unauthorized access to your system settings and data.

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