The only way a serial number can be checked is if the laptop is actually in someone's hands.
That's why de5_roy suggests (correctly) filing a police report so that in case it turns up the serial number can be tracked back to you.
[strike]That "Brand's database" you mentioned, as far as we know isn't going to be useful.[/strike] OK, got it.
That was the other report I'd suggest you make. Notify Acer it's been stolen, in case it's taken in for repair or maintenance. Besides the police, that's the other place a laptop serial number will get checked.