Definition: Absolute LoJack

A theft recovery service for laptops from Absolute Software Corporation, Vancouver, BC, Canada (www.absolute.com) that comprises an application and annual subscription. Originally LoJack for Laptops, Absolute LoJack launches at startup and logs in to the LoJack server. If the computer is stolen, the user notifies the company, and whenever the computer goes online, its Internet address can be identified. In addition, users can delete their data remotely.

In order to pinpoint the thief, the ISP or enterprise generally has to be contacted by the police. A premium service option helps pay for a new computer if the old one is not recovered within 60 days.

The Original LoJack
The LoJack concept comes from the theft recovery system for vehicles from LoJack, Westwood, MA (www.lojack.com). Named to contrast "hijack," a transmitter is installed in a secret location in the vehicle that is assigned to the vehicle's ID number (VIN). When reported stolen, law enforcement vehicles and aircraft with LoJack tracking in many U.S. states and around the world can activate the unit and detect its signals within 20 miles on the ground and 120 miles from the air.