This is obviously a publicity stunt. Or perhaps the thieves erased all of the data and set up a new user account... But then HiddenApp wouldn't be on the computer anymore.
Or maybe the original user was too dumb.
Or, most likely:
This is staged, and a publicity stunt. No other explanation.
Someone else mentioned that the app in question suggests opening up a guest account for this purpose on their site (i.e. your personal files are protected, but the thief can still use the computer).
Because if it was password protected the thief would just reformat the laptop and there's no chance of recovery. Allowing them to use the PC allows the software to phone home.
The "similar service" is really only the Find My Mac thing. These apps usually include taking screenshots, taking webcam pictures, simulating error screens, keyloggers, etc..
They most likely do, both password and FileVault. The idea is to intentionally leave a barely-functional Guest account available to anyone who opens the laptop. Those in possession of the laptop start using it and the tracking software phones home with location, photos, etc. This is even a best-practice suggested by Apple; its quite effective.
> - don't protect their laptop using a password
> - therefor probably do not turn on FileVault?
This is obviously a publicity stunt. Or perhaps the thieves erased all of the data and set up a new user account... But then HiddenApp wouldn't be on the computer anymore.
Or maybe the original user was too dumb.
Or, most likely:
This is staged, and a publicity stunt. No other explanation.