Since the release of the IBM PC in 1984, the computer has become a very popular tool; there were 60 million computers in the UK in 1998. The value and prevalence of these machines did not escape the attention of the criminal fraternity, and the theft of computers is now a major problem:
	In 1999 insurance payouts for computer theft reached £880 million, second only to auto theft. Almost half of all larger companies have suffered computer theft, and only 18% of companies recovered the full cost from their insurance company. On an average day last year 1540 businesses were burgled. The average annual loss of company computer equipment soared from £7,700 in 1994 to £25,000 in 1999.
	The nature of computer crime has started to change recently. In the past 'chip' theft was the most lucrative option, as the components were very valuable. As component costs have fallen, stealing the chips has become less attractive, and removing the entire computer is seen as the most valuable option.
	Hence the rise of a new phenomenon - 'smash and dash' crime. The thieves work on the premise that they have three minutes to steal as much equipment as possible, before they run the risk of being caught by the police. In this instance the cost to the company is not only the value of the stolen equipment, but the damage the thieves have done in those three minutes. The best way to deter such crime is to put in place equipment that will eat into those three minutes; and thus prevent the thieves getting any property.