As part of its research, the Consumer's Association magazine tested a number of the current offerings on the market and concluded that the technology – much of which is free of charge – can help users to retrieve their stolen gadgets.
According to the report, MobileMe works well for Apple iPhone or iPad owners, whilst Prey – which is also free - does a similarly good job of protecting laptops and non-Apple devices.
Which? notes that, once switched on, MobileMe keeps tabs on your phone’s whereabouts - and if you and your phone become separated you can simply log into a website to see where it is.
“In May and June, the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) reported a spate of violent street muggings in which iPhone users were robbed. Our own figures reveal that 12% of Which? members have had their phone stolen in the past five years”, says the report, adding that 18% of members have lost their handsets.
Whilst MobileMe is well known for Apple devices, Prey is less well-known, but says the report, its free version allows users to track up to three of their portable devices, whilst the paid-for (Pro) version is a good option for businesses.