US MICROSOFT WEBSITE COMMENTS ON COMPUTER THEFT http://www.microsoft.com/smallbusiness/support/checklist/guard-against-theft.mspx

Step 5 – Guard Against Computer Theft

When you think of computer security threats, you probably think about viruses, or hackers who try to attack your PC over the Internet. But the information on your computer is also at risk from the person who sees an opportunity to grab your computer and walk (or run) away with it. Because laptop PCs are portable by design, they are especially vulnerable to theft and mobile workers using them need to be alert. Key Point: Keep your laptop computer in sight, or well hidden, whenever you travel. On This Page More about preventing laptop theft Protecting desktop computers and servers More about preventing laptop theft Here are five tips to help keep you from losing your laptop to thieves: 1. Be on guard when travelling. If possible, never leave your laptop unattended. If you must leave your laptop in your car, store it in the trunk of the vehicle. If you must leave it in your hotel room, hide it out of sight under some clothes or in a backpack. 2. Put your name on it. Engrave or permanently mark your computer with your name and phone number, and your company's toll-free number. Record your laptop's serial number. Place several of your business cards inside carrying case pockets, too. 3. Make it inconspicuous. Carry your laptop in an ordinary satchel or backpack. Using a case designed specifically for a laptop alerts thieves to the fact that you have a computer with you. 4. Quickly report the theft. Make sure you report it missing to your employer and local authorities as soon as possible. This will help to speed up the recovery process. 5. Don’t save passwords. Don't have a file on your laptop that contains important passwords. Hackers can get into your personal or business files and find them. If your laptop does fall into the hands of thieves, you can have some measure of comfort if you have taken steps to conceal your data. So also consider the following: • Use data encryption. Encryption does not guarantee your data will always remain safe, but it will hamper all but the most persistent criminal hackers. Windows Vista and Windows XP both come with the Encrypting File System, which provides file and folder encryption capabilities. Windows Vista Ultimate edition goes a step further with BitLocker Drive Encryption. This feature encrypts the entire Windows system volume and is specifically aimed to reduce the impact from the loss, theft or unwanted disclosure of business data. • Get a removable hard drive. Some laptops allow you to remove the hard drive when you are storing your laptop and carry the drive in your jacket pocket. Top of page Protecting desktop computers and servers The desktop PCs and servers at your office can be targets, too. There is the possibility that thieves, a competitor, or a disgruntled employee may try to steal a computer from your workplace if the opportunity presents itself. Here are a few things you can do if your business seems vulnerable to on-site thievery. • Use computer-locking cables. As with laptop PCs, cables are available for tethering desktop computers and monitors. • Locate your server in a locked room. It is a good idea to keep this valuable repository of company information out of easily accessed areas and away from unauthorised personnel. • Install an onsite alarm system. Alarm systems can help thwart break-ins by thieves looking to carry off valuables, which include computers. Finally, make sure employees understand that computers are at risk from thieves by addressing the issue in your company security plan and sharing theft prevention tips.