Laptop Thefts From Public Places - Lamorinda Computer & Technical Support

Laptops, Smartphones and other valuables are frequently being stolen from public places such as coffee shops and libraries.

The criminals often target people who are busy using their devices. The bad guys and gals will simply grab your device and run for it.

Here’s a great short video by a local police officer, describing the crime and ways to protect yourself: https://lamorindatechnology.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=59906339194d9866bd4c8e2fd&id=3213d7509e&e=9f2fc020ee

Below is a summary of the officers’ advice:

Here’s the most common M.O. (Modus Operandi, for you Latin scholars).

2 or more young people (typically 16-24), will enter a public place.

Criminal 1 will stay by the door.

The other criminal(s) will walk around or use the restroom, but will not buy anything.

Criminal number 2 will look for an easy target-someone who’s busy looking down at their device and is not aware.

Criminal number 2 will walk by, grab the device and head for the open door, which criminal number 1 has thoughtfully held open for them.

Both criminals will run to a waiting vehicle and drive away.

How to protect yourself

Be aware. Look around periodically.

Secure your device with a security cable. This makes it hard for the bad guys to grab easily.

If you become aware of suspicious behavior, move your device to your lap.

Alert management or the police to suspicious behavior.

Should a crime occur, be a good witness and provide the police with details such as descriptions of the criminals and their getaway vehicle, license plate number, etc.

The police do not recommend chasing or confronting any criminals-your safety is more valuable than the device.

If you’re looking to purchase a security cable, I’ve done a bit of research to make the process easier for you. (please verify that the cable you intend to purchase works with your device before purchasing).

Here are a few choices from Amazon

Amazon recommended $14.99: (works with most devices (not MacBooks) https://lamorindatechnology.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=59906339194d9866bd4c8e2fd&id=b14d3c35de&e=9f2fc020ee

For MacBooks There are a number of choices, depending upon your specific model. here is one possibility: