Everdream claims new service can remotely encrypt or delete data

Desktop management service provider Everdream on Tuesday announced a service that makes it possible to encrypt or delete data even after a laptop has gone missing.

The new Everdream "Theft Recovery Managed Service" allows organizations to retain control over lost or stolen PCs and laptops, the Fremont, Calif., company said in a statement. The service also can assist law enforcement with the tracking, locating and recovery of computers, the company said.

When a missing PC is connected to the Internet, it automatically contacts Everdream. This triggers encryption or deletion of data on the computer, based on the customer's setting, Everdream said.

At the same time, information on the Internet connection used by the lost computer is stored. This can help locate and recover the PC, Everdream said. The service won't work, however, if the computer's hard disk has been formatted, because the Everdream software resides on the hard disk, an Everdream representative said.