By: Community Officer Jeff Kirchman
Electronic device theft is one of the most common crimes reported to UWPD, second only to bicycle theft. This includes laptops, cell phones, and backpacks containing these and other electronic items. The reality is that our campus is a ‘target-rich environment’ for thieves, so here are a few tips to help prevent theft, catch perpetrators and/or help get your stuff back.
Take your stuff with you
By far, our most common device theft report begins with property left unattended in a public space. It’s understandable; we don’t want to pack up all our things just for a quick snack or bathroom run. But thieves are opportunists, and it only takes a few seconds for them to grab-and-go. As annoying as it is, the best prevention plan in a public space is to take your things with you whenever you leave – even if it’s ‘just for a sec’.
Accessorize and be creative!
Another theft deterrent is making your devices as uniquely yours as possible. Attach decals and stickers. Cover the exterior in colorful doodles. Etch your name or elaborate designs into the item. Exercise your cellphone Cervantes or laptop Leonardo. Thieves are less likely to take something that can be so easily identified. And, if something is taken, a good description of one-off features greatly helps police to find your property and hold the perpetrator accountable.
Track it down
Another great help when items are stolen are tracking devices. Many electronics now come with built-in tracking features, or they can be easily added. Also, stand-alone trackers, like the Apple AirTag, Tile, or others, are inexpensive and highly effective. When a stolen device can be tracked, our success in solving the crime increases exponentially.
Know the device details
If you’re the victim of a theft, it’s crucial to have access to the make, model, and serial number of the device. With this information, police can enter the item into a nationwide database of stolen articles, greatly increasing the chances of getting your property back.
It’s unfortunate there’s such a need to safeguard our property. But, these high-value, highly portable devices are attractive targets. With just a little extra effort, you can thwart thieves and significantly increase the chance that your things stay yours.
For more crime prevention advice, check out UWPD’s Crime Prevention and Tips page.