Laptop M.I.A.: Preventative Precautions

Often, our enthusiasm overwhelms us when purchasing a new laptop or TV. Maybe it’s the fresh smelling aroma of manufactured plastics that encase these glorious devices, or what wondrous things they can help us do. But, that also means you should never let your guard down, as there can be evil lurking around the corner, ready to enjoy your tech just as much as you do.

Laptops, TVs and GPS systems are hot theft items across the country. Here are some tips to help keep you from being the victim. Or, in the chance that your property is stolen, how you might be able to get it back:

• If you leave your tech gear in your vehicle unattended, put it in the trunk — or at least hide it in the locked cab interior. If you have a GPS system suction cupped to your windshield, remove it and put it in your glove compartment, or better yet – take it with you.

• Save a copy of your original sales receipt in a safe place. You’ll need it to provide proof of purchase.

• Record the serial number for all tech items immediately after your purchase. Then, in the unfortunate event your product is stolen, you can file the number with your insurance company and the police department. The serial number makes it easier to identify your tech if it’s recovered.

• Encrypt the data on your computer, hard drive or other data-storage device so thieves can’t access it. In the least, password protect your device. If you have Windows Vista Business, Enterprise or Ultimate Edition, it’s easier to do so. Simply right-click the folder or file you want to encrypt, and then click “Properties.” Click the “General” tab and then “Advanced.” And then, click the “Encrypt contents to secure data” check box and click OK.

(Image from Microsoft.com)

• Back-up your data regularly so you can recover it on another device (here’s one easy solution: online backup). Here’s a Two Minute Miracle video we created recently that explains what online backup is and how it works: