Download.it search icon
Advertisement

Web service allowing computers and mobile devices to be tracked

Web service allowing computers and mobile devices to be tracked

Vote: (26 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Fork

Version: 1.12.3

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(26 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Fork

1.12.3

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Efficient tracking and reporting system
  • Ability to capture images and screenshots for verification
  • Utilizes existing internet connections or open Wi-Fi
  • Intuitive user interface on the control panel
  • Continuous updates and expanded platform support

Cons

  • Effectiveness may reduce if a thief reformats the device
  • Reliant on thief connecting to the internet
  • Requires preemptive installation before the incident

Comprehensive Security and Location Tracking with Prey

In the digital age, the safety and security of our electronic devices are of paramount importance. Prey emerges as a multitasking marvel in the landscape of device protection solutions. Designed as a comprehensive security feature, Prey specializes in tracking stolen or misplaced computers and furnishes a host of tools to increase the odds of retrieval.

Installation and Setup

Setting up Prey requires a straightforward installation of its client software on your Windows machine. After installing Prey, users must create an account on the developer’s website. This account acts as the command center, from which any devices linked to Prey can be monitored. Add your devices to the program's roster to ensure all your electronics are under the watchful eye of Prey, ready to be tracked should they go missing.

Activating Lost Device Protocols

When unfortunate circumstances arise and a device goes astray, marking it as 'Missing' on the personal Control Panel activates Prey's tracking system. Once signaled, the system diligently sends detailed reports at 20-minute intervals, offering a lifeline to potentially recover lost or stolen hardware.

Intelligent Reporting

The strength of Prey lies in its intelligent reporting capabilities. The program can gather a vast range of data to provide comprehensive insights into the status and whereabouts of a missing computer. Reports can include lists of currently running applications, active network connections, screen captures, and if available, photos captured through an inbuilt webcam, potentially revealing the location or the person in possession of the device.

Moreover, Prey is designed to utilize any available internet connection for its tracking operations. In the event of no available networks, it attempts to latch onto an open Wi-Fi signal, expanding its reach in tracking down the lost device.

Dependency on External Factors

The effectiveness of Prey comes with a caveat; it largely depends on the actions taken by the individual who has the device. If the hard drive is quickly reformatted after theft, Prey's functionality may be severely crippled. Nevertheless, having Prey activated provides a safety net, giving users a proactive measure against theft and a fighting chance at recovery.

Recent Updates

Prey's dedication to its service is further illustrated through its recent addition to Ubuntu’s official package repositories, expanding its availability and ease of installation for Linux users. Such updates indicate continuous improvements and adaptations to the evolving tech landscape.

Conclusion

Prey offers a promising solution to the daunting problem of device theft or loss. By empowering users with the tools to track and potentially recover their computers, it provides a sliver of hope in an otherwise bleak scenario. The efficiency of recovery may ebb and flow depending on how the device is handled post-theft, yet it bolsters the adage that "there's always a chance."

Pros

  • Efficient tracking and reporting system
  • Ability to capture images and screenshots for verification
  • Utilizes existing internet connections or open Wi-Fi
  • Intuitive user interface on the control panel
  • Continuous updates and expanded platform support

Cons

  • Effectiveness may reduce if a thief reformats the device
  • Reliant on thief connecting to the internet
  • Requires preemptive installation before the incident