My macbook was stolen. Is there a way to access the data on the macbook remotely and save all of it?

Jess_ka93 wrote:

Is there any way to restore a previous backup perhaps in the hope that I can still retrieve all my data? My external backup was stolen with my MacBook.

How can I locate where it is because it doesn't come up on my devices if I use the find my iPhone on icloud?

If the machine is turned off, they is no way for it to show until it gets powered up.

You restore from a previous backup at hand— not magically.

You may have some data in the iCloud— Back up and restore your Mac - Apple Support

Jess_ka93 wrote:

My macbook was stolen. Is there a way to access the data on the macbook remotely and save all of it?

Might be little late for that.

You can wipe the Mac if it truly stolen with no chance of recovery ...ref:

If your Mac is lost or stolen - Apple Support

Use the Find My app to locate a lost or stolen device - Apple ...

If you value your user data—

3-2-1 Backup Strategy: three copies of your data, two different methods, and one offsite.

Jess_ka93 wrote:

Please excuse my ignorance I am just desperate as I have lost years of academic research data in one swoop.

Thank you for your help

Understood, it is a very hard lesson learned.

Sometimes it takes a catastrophic failure or loss before one groks's the back up religion.

It is always advised if not pushed the "3-2-1 Backup Strategy" often falling short of the importance being proselytized.

You can remain optimistic your computer will turn up and be returned unscathed in the course of time.