Prey (software)

Prey is a cross-platform security and tracking software designed to help users locate and recover lost or stolen electronic devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. The software is developed by Prey Inc., a company specializing in device tracking and cybersecurity solutions. Prey provides functionalities such as remote locking, GPS tracking, data protection, and multi-device management.

Prey
Developer	Prey Inc.
Initial release	March 24, 2009 (2009-03-24)
Stable release	1.9.3[1]
Operating system	Windows, Linux, OS X, Android, iOS
Type	Device tracking software
License	GNU General Public License; proprietary (Prey Pro)
Website	preyproject.com

Initially released as an open-source project in 2009, Prey has since evolved into a comprehensive security solution used by individuals, businesses, and educational institutions.

Features

Prey offers various device security and management features, including:

• GPS and Wi-Fi Geolocation Tracking – Enables users to locate devices with real-time location updates.
• Remote Lock & Alarm – Allows device owners to remotely lock lost devices and trigger an alarm to deter theft.
• Data Protection & Remote Wipe – Provides the ability to remotely delete sensitive files to prevent unauthorized access.
• Geofencing & Device Monitoring – Alerts users when a device enters or exits a designated area.
• Multi-Device Management – Offers a centralized platform for managing multiple devices, making it suitable for enterprise and educational use.
• Report Generation – Automatically compiles security reports with screenshots, webcam images, and geolocation data to assist in device recovery.

Prey is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Development and Availability

Prey was originally created by Tomás Pollak, a Chilean software developer, as an open-source project in 2009. It gained popularity due to its lightweight approach and effective tracking capabilities. Over the years, Prey has expanded its services, introducing premium plans for businesses and institutions.

As of 2024, Prey operates under a freemium model, offering a free tier with basic tracking features and premium plans that include advanced security tools, automated tracking, and detailed auditing features.

Usage and Adoption

Prey is widely used in various sectors, including:

• Individual Users – To track personal devices in case of loss or theft.
• Educational Institutions – For managing and securing school-issued devices.
• Businesses and Enterprises – To enforce Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies and protect corporate assets.

Several organizations have reported successful device recoveries using Prey, with case studies highlighting its role in recovering stolen laptops and smartphones.

Version History

Version	Release Date	Key Features
1	2009	Initial open-source release
1.7	2018	Added multi-device tracking & geofencing
1.9.3	2024	Improved reporting & cloud integration