It’s no wonder that laptop computers are popular among college students — the devices are portable, and you can use them for everything from taking notes to wireless Internet surfing.
But the same factors that make laptops so appealing to students also can make them a hot target for thieves and cybercrooks.
“Particularly in the case of laptops, they’re so easy to put into a backpack or any type thing (to steal),” said Harold Matthews, director of safety and security at the University of Evansville [Indiana].
And even if your laptop is never stolen, it’s vulnerable to threats including viruses, spyware, worms and bad guys attempting to steal your personal information electronically.
The good news? There are several steps you can take to help keep your computer safe.
Preventing Computer Theft
It’s almost too simple to mention, but the experts agree you never should leave your computer unsecured.
“Don’t just leave it lying around,” said Steve Woodall, director of security at the University of Southern Indiana.
In 2007, Woodall said, USI students reported nine laptop thefts. Most of the computers were stolen from student dorm rooms or apartments, and all of the stolen computers were unsecured.
In a dorm room or apartment, Woodall recommends using a security cable to tether the computer to an immovable object, or locking the computer inside a drawer or cabinet. Another option is a motion-sensitive alarm that goes off if someone tries to move the computer.
If you have your computer with you in a public place, don’t walk away and leave the computer, Woodall says — either take it with you or ask a friend to watch it.
Carry the laptop in a nondescript bag or a briefcase, Matthews advises.
“Don’t advertise that you’ve got a laptop… You can attract attention that you don’t want to have”
Consider marking your computer with your initials or an identifiable…