New mobile anti-theft system a scream
Monday, 02 Oct 2006 17:08
Screaming yourself is optional
Potential mobile phone thieves could be in for a shock if they steal a phone installed with the latest anti-theft technology, which literally screams quality.
The Remote XT system means that a user can phone a 24-hour hotline which activates a radio signal to trigger a shrill screaming sound on the stolen phone, which can only be stopped by removing the battery.
But the technology also permanently disables the phone, even if its Sim card is replaced, meaning that the mobile become virtually useless.
The developers believe that the system could lead to the virtual eradication of mobile phone theft by Christmas 2008.
Mark Whiteman, managing director of Remote XT, said: "By making mobiles unusable to anyone but the rightful owner, the phones become worthless and we'll see the market for stolen handsets stamped out once and for all.
"Theft-proof phones spell disaster for the huge criminal industry that has profited from mobile theft for too long."
As part of the service, which costs £9.99 a month, users' personal details and sensitive information such as contact numbers, text messages and emails are retained on a secure server.
Jack Wraith, chairman of the Mobile Industry Crime Action Forum, added: "Any product which adds a level of security for the user and a barrier for the thief has to be good news."
It is estimated that about 700,000 mobile phones are stolen every year.