I'd like to find out when the idea of tracking computers with hidden
software on the system was first mentioned anywhere.  Basically, I'm
looking for details on how soon before these companies starting
offering the product the idea was introduced.  For example, products
like
Computrace - http://www.absolute.com
The Cyber Angel - http://www.thecyberangel.com

have been in operation since 1996-1997.  Bonus will be very strongly
considered for a helpful response.

I don't know the first but I know the worst. aQuantive inc is the
mother company of tracking software called avenue a. I have never
found a computer without this tracking cookie on it. I would bet
whoever the owners are- they started in 1998 -worked for the pioneers.
The best program to stop them is STOPSIGN by eacceleration. If you go
to the site you can do a free scan so you can see avenue a on your
computer too. Kathleen, owner of Custom Computer Works Allentown, Pa.

I had never heard of STOPSIGN before reading this comment but I have
just done a number of Google searches (both web and group) on the
product and I suggest that anyone who is considering using it does
likewise - there seems to be some mixed messages regarding it.