Protecting Your Laptop From Theft

Laptops are easy to use around campus because they are portable and powerful. However, that portability also means that laptops are easily stolen. There are things that you can do to decrease the chances of your laptop being stolen and increase the chances of your laptop being recovered if it is stolen.

The best thing you can do to increase your chances of recovering your laptop after it is lost or stolen is to register your laptop with CITES Security before it is stolen. You can register your laptop by visiting http://www.cites.illinois.edu/security/register/

If your computer is lost or stolen you should report it to the Division of Public Safety. They will work with CITES Security to try to locate your computer. Laptops that have been registered with CITES Security have a much higher recovery rate on campus than those that haven't.

Theft Prevention

1. Register Your Laptop: If you frequently bring your laptop onto campus, you absolutely should take a few minutes to register your laptop with CITES Security using the Computer Registration Tool. Laptops that are registered with CITES Security have a much higher rate of recovery than laptops that haven't been registered.
2. Never leave your laptop unattended: Even if you are just making a quick trip to the restroom, your laptop could be gone in a matter of seconds.
3. Use a cable lock correctly: A good rule of thumb is if your computer is not in your hands it should be under lock and key. There are many styles of locks available in a wide price range and in many locations. Most retail stores that carry computers have cable locks and they can also be found on campus at the Computer Center at the Illini Union. CITES Security recommends a cable lock that is either keyed, or a combination lock that has at least four wheels. Combination locks with only three wheels have proven to be easily compromised.
   If you don't use the lock properly, it is worthless. Make sure you cable your laptop to a large or immovable object, such as the cross support between the legs of a chair. A thief would have to carry not only your laptop, but the chair too!
4. Keep your eyes open: Many thieves roam public places, such as libraries and coffee shops, looking for victims. Keep your eyes open and if you suspect someone is "casing the joint," report it to the appropriate people.
5. Lock the door: Whether it is your dorm room or your office, do not leave your laptop in an unlocked room.
6. Use a password: Set your computer so a password is required at start-up or after hibernating. This will help prevent the theft of any sensitive or personal data that might be on your laptop.
7. Back up your data: With a back up of your machine you can retrieve your data even if your computer is lost or stolen. Remember, the most important piece of the computer isn't the hardware, but the data on it.

After a Theft

1. Report the incident to the police: If you are the victim of theft report the incident to the proper authorities. Be prepared to supply them with as much information as you can, including the serial number and other information identified on this web page. If the theft occured on campus, report the incident to the University Police at 333-1216. If the theft occurred outside of the University Police's jurisdiction, report it to the local authorities. The number to call in Champaign County for non-emergency issues is 217-333-8911. Your call will then be directed to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
2. Contact bank and credit card companies: If your computer contained personal information like credit card numbers, social security numbers, or passwords you may want to contact these companies, or put a fraud watch out on your credit.
3. Report the incident to your insurance agent: Many homeowner polices cover computers. Check with your agent to see if your policy does and file a claim.