ATTENTION STUDENTS: Every 12 seconds, somewhere in the world a laptop is stolen. College students need to take some simple precautions to protect not only their computers but also the sensitive information stored on them.
College campuses are prime territory for thieves. The FBI projects that approximately 2.6 million laptops will be stolen in 2008. Experts say that a significant number of these thefts will occur on college campuses. Why? There are probably more laptops on a college campus than in any other similar geographic area.
Students will often leave laptops unattended to go get a quick snack while studying at the library or leave them in an unsecured dorm room because they were “only going to be gone a few minutes.” Thieves will prey upon campuses around exam times knowing that students are preoccupied with their studies and are more apt to leave items unattended when taking a study break.
Laptops have become a prime target for thieves because they are small, valuable, can be removed quickly and are easily hidden. A thief can sell a laptop to an unsuspecting used computer store, pawnshop or individual and easily receive half of its cash value.
Protecting your laptop on campus begins with some common sense—keep it close and do not lend it to anyone. You should also:
– Never leave your laptop unattended, even for a moment.
– Do not carry your laptop in an obvious laptop bag and leave it lying around.
– Purchase insurance for your laptop—it may be covered under your parents’ homeowners policy.
– Back up all important data daily.
– Encrypt the most important data.
– Utilize a security cable along with a theft deterrent device.
Many universities and corporations have started using STOP Tags as a deterrent to laptop thefts. These small security plates are attached to the laptop and bear a unique identifying number along with the toll-free number for an anti-theft and ownership verification hotline.
If the STOP Tags are removed, they will leave a permanent tattoo on the machine that reads “Stolen Property” and also has the 800 number to call and report it. The permanent tattoo acts as a deterrent by providing proof that the item is stolen and is police-traceable.
The resale value is also severely hindered. There have been instances in which laptops have been taken from campuses but the ones with the STOP Tags have been left behind. Wesleyan students can inquire about or purchase STOP Tags from the Office of Public Safety.
Always remember that you are the person in charge of your property. You and the decisions you make are the single most important resources in the prevention of theft.
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