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Data wiping protection mechanism comes to laptop

Data wiping protection mechanism comes to laptop
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Techworld writes about a new data protection system that can automatically delete data on a computer which has been physically removed from a set location.

The solution, called Backstopp, works as a hosted service which monitors a protected computer through the internet or using wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi or GSM).

Should the device be moved outside the reach of Backstopp, the system automatically wipes out important data on the device, laptop or desktop.

Backstopp also works on laptops which are switched on and also includes a feature that allows any laptop that comes with an inbuilt webcam feature to take photos of possible thieves and send them unaided.

The service offers administrators an 'at-a-glance' report of important data stored on the computer.

"There are millions of laptops out there that contain valuable data. The vast majority are not stolen for their data, but the ultimate recipient will often come across the data and use it for criminal purposes. This solution prevents that illicit use,” said Dean Bates, the CTO of Virtuity, the firm behind Backstopp.

The Software-as-a-service apparently uses RFID, IP addressing and GPS triangulation to keep track of your data whereabouts.

However, It introduces the thorny question of accidental removal as the data is securely deleted "using file deletion patterns detailed in the US Department of Defence’s National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (US DoD 5220-22.M), ensuring decommission data can not be retrieved."

Backstopp only costs £10 per computer.
Desire Athow

Posted by Desire Athow on 20 Feb. 2008

Désiré Athow is the Content Editor for ITProportal.com and has been writing tech articles for nearly a decade. You can follow him on Twitter.

Tags: Data Management, Data stuff, Encryption, Logging/Tracking, Management, National Security, Physical Security, Protection