How to keep thieves from stealing your stuff

Theft is one of the most prevalent crimes reported on the Stanford campus. Public Information Officer Bill Larson, who also specializes in crime prevention and community safety in the Department of Public Safety, suggests how students can protect their belongings and what they can do when a thief strikes.

bag being snatched through a car window

Theft is one of the most prevalent crimes on the Stanford University campus. (Image credit: Getty Images)

What sorts of things get stolen from student residences and vehicles?

Mostly, we see mobile devices such as laptops, iPads and cell phones. But thieves will also take passports, wallets, purses, keys and access cards. These are the familiar, everyday kinds of objects students don’t think about so much, so they often will make the mistake of leaving them unattended in their room, library, study lounge or in their car.

 

How can students avoid having their belongings stolen?

We have a saying around here: “Lock it or lose it.” Do not leave valuables unattended or unsecured at any time, even if you are going to be gone for only a few minutes. To avoid becoming a victim, always remember that theft is a crime of opportunity.

Some specific suggestions include purchasing a laptop cable lock and securing the laptop to something fixed, like a table or a desk leg. For your bike, get a U-lock and lock the bike to a bike rack. Lock your car doors and remove valuables from sight, especially if the vehicle will be unattended. And remember, thieves know that valuables are also stored in the trunk.

And, if you “see something, say something.” Immediately report suspicious activity by dialing 9‑1‑1 or (650) 329‑2413, which is the non-emergency, 24/7 number.

 

What should students do if someone steals a belonging such as a laptop, iPhone or bike?

File a report with us by calling (650) 329‑2413 – 24/7. Be ready with a full description of the item and any serial numbers, bicycle license number or any other defining information. But if you see a theft in progress, call 9‑1‑1 immediately.

Learn even more from the Stanford University Safety, Security & Fire Report.