Secure my mac so if it gets stolen i can find it!

[mpt-matthew]

I know this can be done through a bit of coding (or if anyone knows an app which will do it all for me, then thats even better).

I dont have a clue about coding, so please be obvious, i think it requires ssh or something.

Basically what i want to do is, if my mac gets stolen activate the webcam to upload pictures to ftp (or another computer), same with desktop pictures (/video). Also it would be helpful if you could somehow locate it (ip, wifi etc).

I dont want it to take pictures of me (to the ftp) every time i use it, just when i activate it - a bit like find my iphone.

Thanks

 

[r.j.s]

There are apps for this ...

 

[GGJstudios]

Any such methods are easily thwarted by reformatting or replacing the hard drive.

 

[S.B.G]

I use Undercover on my iMac and MBP. It's a one-time fee with no reoccurring ones. It does essentially what you describe you want to do. I've read a few news stories over the years of successful recoveries using this software.

 

[mpt-matthew]

Any such methods are easily thwarted by reformatting or replacing the hard drive.

Yes, obviously - for the hardened criminal.
Many people have recovered their mac this way so its certainly worth a try.

 

[miles01110]

Go with Undercover. Most thieves don't bother replacing the hard drive.

 

[brandon.8602]

Here's what you do:

1)Open up the computer
2) slip in an iPod Touch 4g with Find my iPhone activated
3) connect it to continuous power in the Macbook

If lost, activiate Find my iPhone

(couldn't resist sorry)

Seriously now, like others have said there are simple apps that'll do just that

 

[calderone]

A firmware password, although it can be circumvented (RAM), can provide a nice layer of protection.

This way, it will force the thief to boot to the OS (until they remove it) which would allow Undercover or a similar product to grab some photos, etc.

If they aren't so smart, the machine will essentially be worthless. They will be unable to boot to any other mode (Single user, DVD, Netboot, etc.)

 

[occamsrazor]

http://preyproject.com/
It's free and does what you want

 

[bender o]

http://preyproject.com/
It's free and does what you want

I have that installed now

 

[Kildeer]

I have a bookmark from long ago, here you go: http://hints.macworld.com/article.php?story=20080824185920426. Haven't tried it myself though.

 

[mpt-matthew]

http://preyproject.com/
It's free and does what you want

OOO thanks

 

[tjb1]

http://preyproject.com/
It's free and does what you want

I agree, I use this also. Best one there is.