Wearable encryption system 'will safeguard laptop data'
Ananova: 

US engineers have developed a way to stop information on laptops from falling into the wrong hands.

The University of Michigan's Zero-Interaction Authentication system automatically encrypts information when owners stray from their machines.

Most data encryption systems require users to actively encrypt or decrypt their documents.

The new system automates this process via a wearable device that remains in wireless contact with the laptop.

When the wearer moves away the radio connection is broken and all data is automatically encrypted.

Inventor Brian Noble says the technology could be embedded into any kind of portable device, but favours a wristwatch because it's less likely to be mislaid.

The technology - which is backed by Intel, Novell and the US Air Force - will be showcased at a computing conference in Atlanta next month.