A unique and revolutionary tracking device which will help tackle the ever-growing problem of computer theft has been put through its paces by North Yorkshire police.

PC Sean Ryder takes part in the test of the WebDetect software, which is able to trace stolen computers

A "stolen" laptop was successfully traced by officers thanks to a piece of software made at the Whitemoor Mine Business Park which could yet see Selby taking on Silicon Valley at its own game.

Once installed in a computer, WebDetect lays dormant until the machine is reported stolen.

It then tells WebDetect Ltd of the crime, and a message is sent to police headquarters to pinpoint its location.

A warrant is then obtained and, if all goes to plan, the machine recovered.

The device has already been subjected to simulated tests by insurance companies, retailers and local authorities, but yesterday's police trial was the first real test.

And WebDetect passed with flying colours.

WebDetect's managing director, Howard Lester, said the trial run had gone extremely well.

"The police got the information within seconds, which enabled them to find the missing machine and make the arrest," he said.

"The software tells our server 'I'm here and I'm a stolen machine' and we traced it through the phone number."

Computer theft costs insurance companies hundreds of millions of pounds each year, and until now tracing the stolen goods has been a difficult task.

North Yorkshire police community safety officer, John Bolton, working with the Safer York Partnership, said such software could be a valuable tool in tackling computer crime.

"Computer theft is a major problem, but as this software can tell us where the stolen computer is, we can get a warrant and go and arrest the offender."

Twenty-three police forces in England and Wales recognise WebDetect, as do all eight in Scotland.

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