David Flynn26 November 2008, 3:00 PM
New service will allows users to disable a lost or stolen 3G notebook by sending it an SMS message.
If BIOS-level passwords, fingerprint recognition and encrypted hard drives aren’t enough for the most paranoid portable PC user, get set for the latest in security.
From early next year, Lenovo’s new Constant Secure Remote Disable service will allow owners of the latest ThinkPads to shut down their system by sending it a special SMS message from your mobile phone. Once the laptop shuts down, the self-encrypting hard drive will scramble the data.
Of course, the notebook will need to be fitted with its own 3G radio, be on the air and within network range in order to receive your ‘seek and destroy’ text message.
Up to 10 mobile numbers can be associated with a single notebook, and the content of the SMS itself must registered with the service so that the laptop will shut down only on receipt of that specific message (which could be anything from a simple ‘SHUT DOWN’ to ‘Klaatu barada nikto’ if you’re a fan of classic sci-fi movies like
The Day The Earth Stood Still (oh, and if you’re nerdy enough to remember how to spell it correctly!). You’ll get an automated SMS reply to confirm the notebook has gone into lock-down mode.
If the notebook somehow finds its way back into your hands, you’ll need to reboot the system and enter a pre-set passcode. The necessary notebook software will be offered for free by Lenovo, which worked with BIOS developer Phoenix Technologies to create the service, for most Montevina-class ThinkPads and IdeaPads as well as appearing on new systems next year.