Guest Account as Thief Trap in case of losing MacBook
There is some literature out there for you (e.g.here or here). Basically there is different means of protection.
- Locating the device (Find my Mac)
- Surveillance apps (also have a look at the OS X Back to my mac, which reportedly freed some Macs from their thieves)
- Data security / encryption (e.g. Filevault2 encryption, Firmware password)
- Physical protection (e.g. Kensington lock)
Watch out when using Filevault2 for Full Disk Encryption. This will make your data safe but will maybe not lure the thief into reveling his / her location, since only a limited version of OS X is booted.
Setting a firmware password will prevent others to boot different disks.
But watch out. These features (filevault and firmware password) require more care with backups, etc. The risk that you lock yourself out is significantly higher.
I suggest you take a look at using Fire-vault 2 on your next Mac. This will keep your data safe. In addition, set a firmware password by following instructions here: http://www.imore.com/how-set-your-macs-firmware-password-and-why-you-shouldnt. This will prevent anyone from booting the Macbook without a password as mentioned below by n1000.
If you want to go the stealth route, you can create a password free account with and place a Remote Keylogger(Don't install freeware like Keytext, you need to have access to the Mac to retrieve the log files). Do a quick Google search and read reviews for a key logger that you can access remotely. You may have to pay for that software. When you have the key logger set up install something like http://excesapp.com to encrypt your home folder.
Above all else, make sure to keep your laptop safe; don't leave it unattended, keep it with you at all times. Of all the laptops I've had, my data has always been safe, because I always kept it close by. Make sure to keep a better eye on your laptop in the future.
Good luck, and let me know if you have any more questions.