StolenIpod
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Dateline "exposes" iPod thieves via hidden camera
There's probably nothing quite as embarrassing as being ambushed on national television by Chris Hansen for stealing a measly iPod. Of course, NBC's crack team of journalists are just trying to expose the growing trend of iPod theft in the world... or kick up their ratings. In a bizarre and somewhat convoluted "hidden camera" scheme, Dateline nabs thieves at their own game by allowing them to steal new iPods bundled with a "special" install disc which secretly hands over the user's information to the news program. The venus-fly-trap-like plot unfolds as the crew leaves "unattended" iPods in high traffic areas, and is then shocked to see people walking off with them. With all due respect, Dateline, you were pretty much asking for it. If you'd like to know how it all ends, hit the read link for the six page transcript.
Apple wants your iPod to stop charging for thieves
Hey, it's no shocker that Apple's iPod is a coveted item even for those who acquire their wares in less than legal manners, but a recent patent application from Apple shows that someone at Cupertino cares about you rightful owners out there. Essentially, the technology would invoke a "guardian" recharge circuit, which would disable any further charging if the computer (or "other recharger") it was paired with was of the unauthorized variety. According to Apple, this type of limitation would "serve as a deterrent to theft," and while we can only assume that it would be applied first to the iPhone and iPod, the application does insinuate that other handheld, rechargeable devices could eventually benefit from the invention.[Via Slashdot]
Targus iPod Lock sacrifices real security for aesthetics
Security expert Marc Weber Tobias has a column over at Engadget called The Lockdown. His most recent column is all about the Targus iPod Lock, which you may recall us mentioning here a few months ago. Turns out that the Targus mobile security lock is not only toothless, but could cause significant damage to your iPod's dock connector if you're not really careful. But wait - as far as Targus is concerned, the iPod damage potential is a feature, not a bug. Marc's analysis - complete with pictures and video demonstration - along with Targus' own responses to his evaluation is well worth the read. The bottom line, however, can be summarized with this statement: "...the key phrase is 'a modicum of security.' For those readers that are not familiar with this term, the definition for modicum includes small amount, little, bit, scrap, or ounce. This would be an accurate definition of the protection afforded by this product."What's worse is that Targus doesn't seem to actually care that their $30 product isn't such a great investment and is counting specifically on the average consumer being gullible enough to think this lock will genuinely protect them from the casual thief. Sad. Very sad.If any TUAW readers have used the Targus iPod lock, let us know what you think.
