"Get your hands off me; I have been stolen, "the laptop, a portable computer, shouted. That is a new
solution to laptop computer theft: a program that lets owners give their property a voice when it has
been taken.
The program allows users to display alerts on the missing computer's screen and even to set a
spoken message. Tracking software for stolen laptops has been on the market for some time, but this
is thought to be the first that allows owners to_give_the_thief_a_piece_of_their_mind.
Owners must report their laptop missing by visiting a website, which sends a message to the model:
a red and yellow "lost or stolen" sign appears on its screen when it is started. Under the latest version
(版本)of the software, users can also send a spoken message.
The message can be set to reappear every 30 seconds, no matter how many times the thief closes it.
"One customer sent a message saying, 'You are being tracked. I am right at your door.'" said Carrie
Hafeman, chief executive of the company which produces the program, Retriever.
In the latest version, people can add a spoken message. For example, the laptop's speaker will say
"Help, this laptop is reported lost or stolen. If you are not my owner, report me now."
The Retriever software package, which costs $29. 95 but has a free trial period, has the functions
of many security software programs. Owners can remotely switch to an alternative password if they
fear that the thief has also got hold of the access details.
If a thief accesses the Internet with the stolen laptop, Retriever will collect information on the Internet
service provider in use, so that the police can be alerted to its location.
Thousands of laptops are stolen every year from homes and offices, but with the use of laptops
increasing, the number stolen while their owners are out has been rising sharply.
Other security software allows users to erase data remotely or lock down the computer.
1. The expression "to give the thief a piece of their mind" can be understood as "________".
A. to give the thief an alert mind
B. to express the owners' anger to the thief
C. to remind the thief of this conscience
D. to make the thief give up his mind
2. Different from other security software, Retriever can ________.
A. record the stealing process
B. help recognize the lost laptop
C. lock down the computer remotely
D. send a spoken message
3. One function of the program is that it allows the owner to ________ at a distance.
A. change some access details for switching on the laptop
B. turn on the laptop by using the original password
C. operate the laptop by means of alternative password
D. erase the information kept in the stolen laptop
4. Which of the following can best summarize the main idea of the passage?
A. With no Retriever, thousands of laptops are stolen every year.
B. A new software provides a means to reduce laptop theft.
C. Retriever has helped to find thieves and lost computers.
D. A new program offers a communication platform with the thief.
