Laptop Theft

ISG, The Information Security Group, providing proactive security expertise, engineering robust security architecture, enhancing a culture of security awareness

Laptop TheftLaptop Theft Protection

Protecting your laptop from theft is much easier than trying to recover it later. A few simple steps can save you lost files, time, maybe even your identity or job.

DETER!
» Lock it down. Secure it with a cable lock, which you can find at the Brown Technology Center as well as online. For serious lock-downs, visit Computer Security Products, that offers laptop tie-down brackets and anti-theft tags.
» Have an alarm? Turn it on! Motion detectors/alarms, such as Laptop Defender start at around $30.
» Lock your room when you leave your laptop behind.
» For more tips, read the "Laptop Disappearing Act", which first appeared in the Sep 2008 edition of Secure IT!

DATA!
» Make a record of key laptop info. Document its serial number, MAC addresses (local area connection as well wireless) and other vitals. These will be helpful for public safety/police reports as well as trying to track it down on Brown's network. Not sure how to capture your MAC addresses? You can find instructions here.
» Print out and store the document in a safe place.

DETECT!
» Track it: Install a tracking program like Computrace (Lojack for Laptops). Three years of coverage for $79.00, available at the Bookstore Technology Center.
» Mark it: Have the Department of Public Safety engrave and register it. Details on this free service on DPS's Laptop Safety web page.
» If missing, report it: If your laptop is stolen, contact DPS immediately.
» Check the Brown network: If you believe that your laptop may still be on campus and want to determine where, contact the CIS Help Desk with your MAC information for further assistance.

Related Resources

» Preparing for a trip? Is your laptop ready for wireless in the wild? Complete this one page checklist before you go:
ISG Checklist "Laptop Security for the Traveler
» You may also wish to share the information with friends or co-workers. The following slides provide a detailed overview:
ISG Slide Presentation "Laptop Security for the Traveler
» Secure IT!, Jan 2009: Focus on Mobile Security
» Secure IT!, May 2008: Laptop Loss = Security Breach?

Contact Us

For general information security questions or to report a computing security incident, contact ISG@brown.edu.