Losing a laptop can be a nightmare, especially if it contains sensitive data or personal information. The thought of someone having access to your files can make anyone uneasy and face huge losses. To avoid such a situation, learning how to make a stolen laptop untraceable is essential.
In this article, we will discuss some simple steps you can take to make your stolen laptop untraceable. These steps will ensure that your sensitive information remains safe and cannot be accessed by anyone who steals your device.
Which are the steps to Make a Stolen Laptop Untraceable?
Step 1: Encrypt Your Data
Encrypting your data is the first step to making a stolen laptop untraceable. Encryption converts your data into a code that only someone with the correct key can decipher. When you encrypt your data, even if someone manages to access your files, they cannot read them without the encryption key.
To encrypt your data on a Windows laptop, you can use BitLocker.
BitLocker is a built-in encryption tool that comes with Windows 10. To use BitLocker, go to the Control Panel, click on System and Security, and then click on BitLocker Drive Encryption
If you’re using a Mac, you can use FileVault. FileVault is a built-in encryption tool that comes with macOS. To enable FileVault, go to System Preferences, click Security & Privacy, and then click the FileVault tab.
We’ve also mentioned some of the top softwares for encryption below.
Step 2: Install a Tracking Software
Installing tracking software is the second step to making a stolen laptop untraceable. Tracking software can help you locate your laptop in case it gets stolen. If you can track your laptop, you can recover it and prevent the thief from accessing your data.
Many tracking software options are available in the market, such as Prey and Find My Device. You can install these software programs on your laptop to track its location. These software programs can also remotely wipe your laptop if you cannot recover it.
Step 3: Use a VPN
You can also use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) that can help you protect your privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic. When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a secure server, which makes it difficult for anyone to trace your online activity.
You can use a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN to protect your laptop. These services encrypt your internet traffic and hide your IP address, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
Step 4: Disable Remote Access
Disabling remote access. Remote access allows someone to access your laptop from another location. If someone gains access to your laptop remotely, they can steal sensitive data without physically accessing it.
For Windows:
- Open the Start menu and search for “Remote Desktop Settings.”
- In the Remote Desktop Settings window, select “Don’t allow remote connections to this computer.”
- Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
For Mac:
- Click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
- Click “Sharing” and then uncheck the “Remote Management” box.
- If you also want to disable screen sharing, uncheck the “Screen Sharing” box.
It’s important to note that if you have already set up remote access on your laptop, you should also disable it in your router settings. This is because even if you disable remote access on your laptop, someone could still access it remotely through your router if the ports are open.
You’ll need to access your router’s configuration page to disable remote access in your router settings, which can be done by typing your router’s IP address into a web browser. Once you’re logged in to your router, look for the “Remote Management” or “Remote Access” setting and disable it.
Step 5: Use a Password Manager
The last step is to use a password manager that can help you create and manage strong passwords for all your accounts. When you use strong passwords, it becomes difficult for anyone to access your accounts, even if they have access to your laptop.
You can use a password manager like LastPass or Dashlane to create and manage strong passwords for all your accounts.
Did You Know?
According to a report by Absolute Software, a security and endpoint management company, laptop theft is a significant problem that costs businesses and individuals billions of dollars each year. The report states that in 2020, there were approximately 8.7 million laptops stolen globally, and the average cost of a laptop theft was $2,500.
Which is the best encryption software?
Indeed, many encryption software options are available for both Mac and Windows systems. Here are some additional options you can consider:
| For Windows | For Mac |
|---|---|
| VeraCrypt | VeraCrypt |
| BitLocker | FileVault |
| AES Crypt | AES Crypt |
| 7-Zip | AxCrypt |
| DiskCryptor | Disk Utility |
| Gpg4win | Gpg Suite |
For Windows:
1. VeraCrypt
VeraCrypt is a free and open-source encryption tool that can encrypt your entire system, including your operating system and boot partition. It also supports various encryption algorithms and hash functions, making it a robust option for advanced users.
2. AxCrypt
AxCrypt is a user-friendly encryption tool that can encrypt individual files or folders. It integrates with Windows Explorer, allowing you to encrypt files with just a right-click. It also supports robust encryption algorithms and can create self-decrypting files for easy sharing.
3. Symantec Endpoint Encryption
Symantec Endpoint Encryption is a comprehensive encryption tool that can encrypt your entire system, including your hard drive, removable media, and email. It also supports centralized management, making it a good option for enterprise users.
For Mac:
Encrypto
Encrypto is a free and easy-to-use encryption tool that can be used to encrypt individual files or folders. It integrates with Finder, allowing you to encrypt files with drag and drop. It also supports password-protected decryption, making sharing encrypted files with others easy.
GPG Suite
GPG Suite is a free and open-source encryption tool that can be used to encrypt email, files, and folders. It integrates with Apple Mail and supports PGP encryption, making it a good option for advanced users. It also supports key management and encrypted backups.
Espionage
Espionage is a user-friendly encryption tool that can be used to encrypt individual folders or volumes. It integrates with Finder and supports multiple encryption algorithms, making it a good option for novice and advanced users.
Conclusion:
Losing a laptop can be a stressful experience, but taking steps to make your stolen laptop untraceable can give you peace of mind. By encrypting your data, installing tracking software, using a VPN, disabling remote access, and using a password manager, you can ensure that your sensitive information remains safe even if your laptop gets stolen.
It’s important to note that while these steps can help make your stolen laptop untraceable, it’s still essential to take precautions to prevent theft in the first place. Avoid leaving your laptop unattended in public places; use a laptop lock to secure it when necessary.
Read More: Best Laptops for Cyber Security