Guard Your Gadgets

Photo by Sean McEntee (flicker)

Try as I might, it’s difficult to write a post such as this and not sound alarmist (and let me assure you, absolutely, I am not trying to be alarmist). Having said that, let’s get into the alarmist stuff:

Gadgets get stolen all the time, not just at UB, not just in the library, but all over this comfy little place I like to call planet earth. It is unfortunate, but that’s just the way it is. These devices, especially tablets, laptops and smart phones, are small and normally carry a large price tag, which means that they are going to catch the eyes of thieves. 

So we would like to remind everyone to please protect your property. (I know, I know. At this point in the post your eyes are probably rolling uncontrollably in your head while you think, “How many times do I have to hear this.” And if you're thinking that, we'd like to say, “Sorry, but this is really important and it just keeps happening. We’d like to create a safe and secure environment, but the world is the world, and here’s our warning.”) Please, do not leave bags or laptops unattended. If not in your pocket, keep smart phones within sight. Tablets too. Also, don’t coat your phone in 14kt. gold. That just adds fuel to the fire. (I’m just kidding. Nobody does that.) But the main advice is simple, be aware of your surroundings. 

Public Safety has some more advice on their website, here. And you can register your device with Public Safety, here (this ensures that in the event your device is lost or stolen, then recovered, PS can return it to you).

A note about theft prevention

‘Tis the season for sticky fingers: just a reminder to keep an eagle eye on your personal belongings when visiting Langsdale-- or any place on campus, for that matter. Laptops and other pricey items are particularly vulnerable to theft during this time of year. If you need to take leave of your study spot, please bring your valuables with you.