New Zealand schools winners after computer theft
13 February 2008
Catching thieves isn't in the job description for computer staff at the Waikato University, but their new-found talents could have far-reaching implications.
The software was developed as a means to track and communicate with an Apple Macintosh computer which was stolen in November from the home of a computer support group employee at the university's School of Education.
Dale Hills sometimes worked from home on his Apple iMac which had already been set up to advertise its internet provider address. When the stolen computer was set up again, he was able to tell it was online. The computer was using an open wireless access point, so the computer staff were able to track it to within 100 metres.
Steve Leichtweis, the manager for the IT group at the university's School of Education, said because the Apple iMac had an inbuilt camera, staff took control of the computer remotely and instructed it to take photos, which it did every two minutes – showing the users in what appeared to be an apartment or dormitory.
Staff then gave the photos and information to Hamilton Police who got a search warrant for the internet service provider and located the computer. A man has been arrested and faces charges.
Dr Leichtweis said it was hoped the software, which would be made available, free, to all primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, would be a deterrent to thieves who often treated schools as "supermarkets".
Dr Leichtweis said the university was not interested in making money from the idea, but wanted to help stem the tide of computer thefts from schools and tertiary centres. "From our point of view, it's a great way of keeping track of your assets," he said.
Initially the software would be for Apple computers only, he said. "Because not all PC laptops are the same (unlike Apple computers) we would have to program for all these extra differences - resulting in more time required to achieve a similar program."
Dr Leichtweis said his department might bid for external funding to cover the costs of that extra time needed to make the software viable for all PCs.
The university is the first offering to help schools and tertiary institutions, he said, although he knew of a US company selling similar software for companies.
For more information contact:
Dr Steve Leichtweis
07 838 4466 ext 8375
Media inquiries:
Peta Goldsworthy, Media Manager
University of Waikato
Ph 07 858 5178 or 027 678-0743
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