Avoiding Laptop and Mobile Device Theft

Overview

Laptops and other portable devices (such as tablets, smartphones, USB drives, CDs, floppy disks, etc.) are frequently stolen or lost. Remember that you should eliminate any unauthorized sensitive information from portable devices and encrypt all authorized sensitive information.

Detail

Did You Know?

• A laptop computer has a 1-in-10 chance of being stolen.
• Nearly half of all laptop thefts occur in offices or classrooms.
• 98% of stolen laptops are never recovered.
• Laptops have a higher rate of security problems than desktop workstations.

Follow these steps to protect your devices

1. Physically secure your laptop computer by keeping it in an office that can be locked. If the laptop can use an available cable lock, secure it to a desk or heavy object in or outside of the office.
2. The University Police department offers a laptop registration and engraving service called Operation ID to help identify stolen equipment.
3. Do not store sensitive or confidential data on mobile devices unless you have been authorized to do so.
4. Avoid leaving your mobile devices and media unattended.
5. Always use a password to protect your portable device against unauthorized use.
6. Turn Bluetooth power off by default, and do not let it be set to discoverable.
7. Turn off the radio switch for your laptop's Wi-Fi access when you are not using it.
8. If a portable device is lost or stolen, contact University Police for assistance.

Related Information

Learn more about Cyber Security Awareness

• Phishing Scams
• Identity Theft
• Access more security resources and services