Preventative Measures to Reduce Thefts

There has been a recent increase in the loss and theft of Accountable Government Equipment over the past few months.  While we cannot prevent all instances of theft, we can adopt measures to safeguard Accountable Government Equipment in our personal possession.  Items that are highly pilferable are laptops and cellphones.

I encourage everyone to practice the following preventative measures to reduce the amount of thefts:

  • Remove any and all devices out of plain sight in vehicles. If you must leave your devices in your vehicle, consider locking them in your trunk.
  • Ensure your vehicle is secure (doors locked, windows up etc.)
  • Never assume your surroundings are safe
  • Secure Government Equipment in hotel rooms out of plain sight; utilize the safe to secure your items or take them with you

If your Government Equipment has been stolen, the following must take place:

If off campus -

  • The incident must be reported to the local authorities and a report number must be obtained
  • You must also notify Protective Services/NIH Police within one hour, IT Security/Computer services (laptops/computers) within one hour, Wireless Coordinator (cellular devices) and the FNLCR Property Office

If on campus -

  • You must notify Protective Services/NIH Police within one hour, IT Security/Computer services (laptops/computers) within one hour, Wireless Coordinator (cellular devices) and the FNLCR Property Office