[Infowarrior] - Lenovo creates SMS ‘kill pill’

[Richard Forno]

Lenovo creates SMS ‘kill pill’
David Flynn26 November 2008, 3:00 PM (20 hours 3 minutes ago.)
http://apcmag.com/lenovo_creates_sms_kill_pill_for_thinkpads.htm#

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.