Man uses remote access to monitor thief's computer use

After his laptop was stolen, Jose Caceres used a remote access program to log on every day and watch it being used by the thief. "It was kind of frustrating because he was mostly using it to watch porn," says Caceres. "I couldn't get any information about him." The guy was eventually caught. (The Journal News)

Comments

[Navy Chief]

Another unintendend feature. I wonder when thte first ad will appear that touts it.

[cherie]

Love this idea, but the government can access our computers the same way, just like they can turn on our cell phones and use them to listen in to conversations. Technology is great....to a point.

[elchampino]

A young woman recently had a similar experience, and similar quick thinking:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2004463358_ptmacc07.html

[twerp]

I agree with cherie. The US can't say squat about the KGB. We're CONSTANTLY being monitored--and with today's cell phones w/GPS, we're being followed as well.

YeY TECHNOLOGY!!

[Joe]

I when i get some free time, and/or when i get a smartphone, I'm going to figure out how VMware works and install it on my computers. I know someone at my school who just brings their phone to class and uses it to remotely control the computer they have left in their room.

I was just thinking how excellent it would be if the thief had signed up for some porn with his own credit card, and the guy who got his computer stolen simply billed the thief for a new one.

HOPE HE GOT TO VIEW THE PORN AS WELL.

[Jack]

This is too funny! It's always refreshing to see the thief "hoist with his own petard."

[troschne]

Pretty ingenious on the theft victims part. Oh--and that's some mighty fancy policin'! I'm sure it wasn't the police department's biggest priority, but still...

[Russ]

Mac users have known this trick for a long time.

ps: A petard is probably not what you think. But you still wouldn't want to be hoisted with one.

[Sigh]

I think I would want more than a few blasts of compressed air to clean off that keyboard...

[Joe]

To the other Joe:

VMware is something completely different -- it allows you to run multiple system configurations on a single physical machine. You should look for applications talking about "remote desktop", such as VNC.

[A.V.]

Did the porn site have someone named dick taster acting out his name?

[twerp]

Off the subject but I have to say it. I love the ad with ARNOLD. Did anybody else hear about him vetoing the law where CA citz wouldn't be able to drive with their dogs in their laps "because it isn't an important issue?" I'd say after many traffic accidents due to this driving distraction that backs traffic way the hell up and wastes gasoline, further adding to the energy crisis and polluting the atmosphere, not to mention the insurance claims furthering the Wall Street woes, it would be an "important issue." I say, he's just vetoing it because his old acting buddies want to continue this ridiculous driving style.

*blows raspberries with tongue out and hold hands up to ears*

I know I'm immature, you don't have to say it.