Always working on the go? Stay one step ahead of laptop thieves while traveling

 

Always working on the go? Stay one step ahead of laptop thieves while traveling

 

With more and more Windows power users working on laptops from airport lounges, hotel rooms, and coffee shops, it's essential to keep this portable and valuable piece of equipment safe from thieves. Check out these tips for securing your system while you're on the road.

• Never leave passwords in your carrying case. Keeping your password with your laptop is like taping your house keys to the front door. In the unfortunate event that your computer is stolen, a thief will have a harder time accessing your personal and corporate information without your passwords.
• Carry your laptop with you whenever possible. Always take your laptop on the plane or train rather than checking it with your luggage. It's easy to lose luggage and it's just as easy to lose your laptop. If you're traveling by car, keep your laptop out of sight.
• Keep your eye on your laptop. When progressing through airport security, don't lose sight of your bag. Hold your bag until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. Many bags look alike and yours can easily be lost in the shuffle.
• Avoid using computer bags. Computer bags can make it obvious that you're carrying a laptop. Instead, try toting your laptop in something more common like a padded backpack.
• Don't set your laptop on the floor. This is an easy way to forget or lose track of your system. If you have to set it down, try to place it between your feet or against your leg, so you're always aware it's there.
• Purchase a laptop security device. If you need to leave your laptop in a hotel room or even in an unsecured office, use a laptop security cable to attach it to a heavy chair, table, or desk. You may also want to purchase software that will report the location of your laptop if it's stolen. When the laptop connects to the internet, the software can trace its exact physical location. Laptop-tracing programs include zTrace, available from http://www.ztrace.com and ComputracePlus, available from http://www.nettrace.co.za%2fLossControl.htm.
• Purchase computer insurance. Most homeowners, renters, and business insurance policies don't cover mobile PC damage or loss. And, the coverage that's offered by some businesses is very limited. If you travel frequently with your laptop, consider buying third-party insurance from a company such as Safeware (http://www.safeware.com), which specializes in computer insurance.