Disclosure: The #AbsoluteUncovered series partnership with Absolute LoJack includes a complimentary subscription and other compensation consideration. All opinions and experiences shared are my own.
By now, we all know that smartphone and small gadget theft has become an epidemic – but did you know that your laptop is just as vulnerable? Do you know what to do the moment you realize your laptop is stolen? Losing your laptop is easier than you think, it’s so easy to fall into a senseless trap and mark yourself as the perfect target for theft. August is ‘Device Theft Awareness Month’ and Absolute LoJack wants you to be informed and prepared for the unimaginable. Just by avoiding theft snares with these preventative tips below, you can improve your chances of loosing your device or having it stolen in the first place.
Never leave your laptop unattended in public places. It’s so easy to assume that everyone in the public will have your back and watch your things while you’re away to the bathroom or counter for coffee, but why risk it?
Beware of where you sit. If you must take your laptop with you to the coffee shop, don’t sit by the door where it’s easy for someone to snatch it and run. Don’t even leave it on the table when you go to pick up your $10 coffee!
Leave it in the car? Where? Not in plain sight and, if you put it in the trunk (still a risk), don’t let anyone see you, be discreet.
Going on vacation or business trip? Whatever you do, don’t check your laptop in your luggage. Not everyone is interested in protecting your property; even employees of the airport/airlines and TSA have been arrested for thefts of passenger’s property.
Plan on using that device on the plane? Don’t EVER put it in the pocket behind the seat: number one place laptops are lost on planes. They tend to fall down into the pocket and, after listening to the endless chatter of your neighbor, you forget you even put it there.
You may not have fallen victim those mistakes, but do you still think your laptop is safe? Take the How Secure Is Your Laptop Quiz and learn your results today.
In case your laptop is stolen, there’s a peace of mind that’s waiting for you, but you have to act now. Absolute LoJack is the only tool with dedicated investigation team dedicated to not only recovering your device but also working with local law enforcement to bring down the criminal(s) behind the theft. Find my iPhone definitely doesn’t have that kind of team behind them. LoJack for laptops ensures an effective plan to recover your lost or stolen computer. If your device was lost or stolen, wouldn’t you want to have a team of professionals working hard for you? I know I would… and I do!
With Absolute Data Protect, you’re able to determine the location of your missing device, lock thieves out of your machine and permanently erase files protecting your information and preventing identity theft.
Reader Discount: All month long, you can receive a 30% discount off your 1-year Absolute LoJack Standard or Premium subscription. Just enter UNCOVER30 at checkout to have the discount automatically applied to your purchase.
About Absolute LoJack for laptops: Absolute LoJack uses advanced patented technology to keep your data secure and recover your device if it’s stolen. Absolute LoJack’s theft recovery software for laptops, smartphones and tablets can withstand a factory reset, installation of a new OS, even a complete hard drive replacement. In every instance, the software rebuilds itself and provides a constant link between owner and machine. Couple that with the highly skilled Investigations team and you’ve got the best chance at getting back your stolen smartphone, laptop or tablet.
For more insightful device theft prevention info and tips, follow hashtag #AbsoluteUncovered on Facebook and Twitter today.