Laptops convenient for students and thieves alike, statistics show

Of the 60 burglary incidents in 2001, 28 occurred in dormitories, according to Public Safety's recently released crime statistics report. About a dozen of those thefts involved student laptops.

With recent advances in technology, laptops have seen a soar in popularity as the academic tool of choice.

With many courses integrating in-class laptop use via online seminars and virtual discussions, there is increased pressure to seek an alternative to the desktop.

The problem is that thieves also appreciate the laptop's versatility, in particular the ease with which they can nab the machine and dump it onto the black market.

Of the 12 laptops stolen in 2001, two were recovered when the thief was apprehended walking down Nassau Street with his wares, said Barry Weiser, Public Safety crime prevention specialist.

Realizing the need for security measures to prevent the theft of such valuable hardware, Public Safety has instituted a laptop registry program.

Much like the bicycle registry, each laptop is given a serial number sticker to be affixed to the back of the machine.

If a laptop is recovered, Public Safety officers check the serial number against their registry and return the computer to its owner.

If local police obtain the computer first, Public Safety officers can use the registry as proof of ownership and take possession of the laptop.

Though Public Safety has taken measures to improve laptop security, OIT has yet to take any action.

OIT's popular Student Computer Initiative offers University students special discounts from laptop manufacturers. After the purchase, however, OIT offers no security hardware to protect laptops from theft.

In contrast, David Morreale, OIT desktop suppor manager, said cluster computers have two methods of security — a physical tie-down and a hardware/software alarm system.

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A vigilant Princetonian, however, can seek out his own security method. Cable locks are the cheapest way to prevent theft.

The locks secure the laptop to an immovable object, such as a desk, allowing for easy key-release when a student wants to move the computer.

zTrace is among the more intricate, technology-intensive security — a program installed on the laptop hard-drive that transmits the computer's location every time it is connected to the Internet.

If the laptop is stolen, police can locate it through the device's transmissions.

A less intrusive security method is Fellowes' Motion Sensor Alarm that emits a loud, piercing scream if the laptop is moved while the system is activated — and like the cable lock, can be easily deactivated with an included key.

Despite the many costly devices available, Weiser recommends a simpler method of crime prevention.

"There is a direct relation between unlocked room doors and theft in general — mostly with laptops," Weiser said. "The biggest deterrent is if it's at a site and the item is behind a locked door."