IBM will unveil its first biometrics-secured ThinkPad notebook computers in Sydney today. They are aimed at the growing market for onboard data protection among forgetful public servants and cautious corporations. Several models of the T42 range will have an integrated fingerprint reader and embedded security subsystem that prevents access to data contained on lost or stolen notebooks.

There was growing awareness of serious problems arising from disclosure of confidential information, IBM personal computing manager Erin Mikan said.

"If a notebook containing sensitive data is left in a cab, it's extremely important to ensure that data can't be used," she said.

"The fingerprint system renders information on the laptop useless, as no-one else can access it."

Ms Mikan expected many government and corporate organisations to happily pay the $100 premium for the additional security.