June 27, 2008, Newsletter Issue #196: Password Security Control Panel

Tip of the Week

One of the best ways to make sure your PowerBook and its contents are secure from data theft is to activate the Password Security control panel. This utility (available on Powerbooks but not iBooks) requires you to enter a password each time you launch your computer and if you choose, when you wake up your PowerBook from sleep.

When you enter your password into the Password Setup section be sure to enter a hint for remembering the password that will easily remind you of the code -- if you forget the password you can´t simply reset it. You´ll have to take your computer, along with a proof of ownership, to an Apple Authorized Service provider. They´ll then bypass the password security and deactivate the utility for you ... and charge you for this service.

It´s a good idea to activate this option while in sleep mode, if you don´t particularly trust your coworkers or if you´re using the laptop in a common area.

The final section of the dialog box allows you to display information about yourself when the utility requests a password. This is presumably so someone can contact you and tell you they´ve found your lost or stolen PowerBook. While it seems a good idea, we suggest you forgo the address info. After all, if the person stole your laptop, you don´t want to invite them to your house for a little more plundering, now do you? Instead, we suggest you enter an email address and possibly a mention of a nice fat reward.

Check out "More Tips on Password Security " for further information.

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