Patent ID: 8062380

Claim:
A computing device configured with executable code for protecting against distribution channel theft, said executable code capable of causing the computing device to perform at least the following actions: during an initial grace period that begins with a first startup after a purchase of the computing device through a distribution channel, operate in a first mode in which a user of the computing device is prompted, with each startup until a valid unlock code is entered, to enter an unlock code associated with the purchase of the computing device, wherein the computing device is substantially fully functional during said grace period regardless of whether a valid unlock code is entered, such that the user need not enter a valid unlock code when first prompted to do so; in response to entry of a valid unlock code, enter into a second mode in which the computing device is fully functional and in which the user is no longer prompted to enter the unlock code; and after the grace period expires without entry of a valid unlock code, operate in a third mode in which the computing device does one or both of the following: (1) transmits data regarding its location to a remote system to facilitate recovery from a possible thief, and (2) performs an action that impedes use of the computing device.