Published: Feb. 19, 2020

Laptops and other electronic devices are a very important part of our lives, whether you are a CU Boulder student, faculty or staff member. Our phones, tablets and other devices often contain personal information and data that is important to us, but, they also have great value to criminals.

Unattended desk with laptop, camera lenses, mobile phone, headphonesRegister your devices

Registering your device can be an important step in preventing victimization. Registration stickers often act as a deterrent, making the item difficult to pawn or sell quickly. The information that is obtained during the registration process such as make, model, and serial number also make it easier for police to identify recovered items and return them to their proper owners.

The Office of Information Technology offers a device registration program that is quick, easy and free. Learn more here. 

Owners can register their devices at the Office of Information Technology Buff Tech Desktop Support inside the CASE building, Room E276; Norlin Commons or in Williams Village at Stearns Central 142.

Theft prevention safety tips

The CU Boulder Police Department offers the following safety tips to prevent your devices from being stolen:

  • Always keep your residence or office locked when empty. That includes when leaving for lunch or using the restroom.
  • In common areas, such as dining facilities, libraries or the University Memorial Center, never leave laptops, mobile phones or other valuable items unattended.
  • Record serial numbers of desktop computers, laptops, mobile phones and other items that could be stolen. If these items are recovered, it is easier to return them to you.
  • Many Apple devices and PC laptops that are running Windows 10 have a tracking service built in. But if you have an older laptop, we recommend installing a third-party tracking software.