Intel introduces anti-theft service in Singapore

Intel Anti-Theft Technology takes advantage of intelligent hardware to lock down a lost or stolen notebook.

In a release, Intel and Ingram Micro announced the availability of the Intel Anti-Theft Service and it is expected to become more broadly available throughout the year in Singapore.

The Intel Anti-Theft Technology uses technology built into select 2nd Generation Intel Core processor-powered laptops as a foundation to lock down lost or missing laptops. It works by allowing a user to submit a lock down request over the web or by configuring a hardware timer to trigger a lock down if the machine fails to ‘check in’ with a server at set intervals. The service also creates a secure data vault on the hard-drive where personal files can be encrypted and stored.

“With increased mobility, notebook users around the world face higher risks of theft or loss of device and data. Data is precious, and to lose it can be inconvenient and upsetting. There are also security risks when data falls into the wrong hands,” explained Collin Tan, Intel’s country manager for Singapore. “We are excited to work with Ingram Micro to make this service available for select Intel Core-powered notebooks and Ultrabooks.”

“Mobile PC usage in Singapore is accelerating with exciting new Ultrabook designs, and PCs are desirable devices to own,” Tan continued. “These can make attractive theft targets. This service deters theft, helps a lost or stolen PC ‘come home’ and – in a worst-case scenario – sends a ‘poison pill’ to disable the PC permanently. Encryption also helps protect data on the PC, though people should of course still back-up.”

Intel Anti-Theft Service takes advantage of intelligent hardware to lock down a lost or stolen notebook. It works even if a thief reimages their hard drive, installs a new hard drive, changes the boot order or avoids connecting to the network. A lost or stolen notebook can be locked-down such that it does not boot by sending a notification over the internet or by using intelligent hardware timers on the notebook. This service also creates a secure data vault on a user’s hard-drive to provide protected storage area for sensitive information. When the notebook is locked-down, access to information in secure data vault is locked down as well and cannot be read even if the hard-drive is attached to another notebook. Notebook owners can display custom message on locked notebooks facilitating return by good Samaritans and can revive the notebook to its full functionality by using their personal password.

“We are proud to be the first distributor to introduce Anti-Theft service for all the laptop users in Singapore. With the launch of this Anti-Theft service, our consumers will now enjoy peace of mind while securing their laptops and their digital lives.” said Mr. Francis Choo, Executive Managing Director, Ingram Micro Asia Ltd. “Ingram Micro and its resellers are delighted to work with Intel for this exceptional service that will provide our customers an opportunity to safeguard their laptops.”