4 Steps to Prepare Your Electronics for Theft

Electronics cost a lot of money, which is why it’s not surprising that they sometimes get stolen. You need to take good care of your electronics to keep them safe and in your own hands. However, there are additional measures you can take to help you find them in the event that they are stolen. Who knows? You may even be able to catch the thief red-handed.

Engrave Your Name and Number on Your Electronics

One thing you can do to protect your electronics is to get them engraved with your name and contact information. Thieves will have a hard time proving an electronic device is theirs if there is an engraving of your name on it. This is particularly useful in schools and places where you are likely to come across your unsuspecting thief.

Of course, keep in mind that you might have difficulty reselling electronics with engravings, so you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of doing it. However, thieves are sometimes deterred from stealing things simply because they have a name and phone number printed on them, which is a pretty big benefit.

Use a Password or Pin to Unlock the Screen

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Another way to deter theft of electronics like a smartphone or tablet PC is to use a password or pin to unlock the device. If a thief can’t use your electronics, they are more likely to leave them behind. As long as your name and number are clearly marked on the device, you have a good chance of getting it back after a thief cannot unlock the screen.

Install Theft Protection Apps

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One great thing about technology is the ability to track your gadget based on its location. You can install apps like Norton Mobile Security and Webroot Mobile Security that let you look on a map and pinpoint within a few feet where your device is located. This is a great protection feature for people who are worried about having their electronic device stolen. You might even be about to catch your thief red handed — thieves beware!

However, theft protection apps aren’t just good for locating your device. They are also useful in protecting your data and personal information by setting up passwords and encryption on all of your files, not just your initial screen lock. You also might even be able to send text messages and other notices to your thief as well as remotely wipe your data if you fear it has been compromised.

Ensure Physical Protection

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All of the steps mentioned here are good in deterring potential electronic thieves, but the best method still involves prevention. You should always make sure your electronics are guarded when they’re not in use. This might mean locking them in a locker or other secure place. You also have to keep them close to you, out of the reach of others.

There are pretty good chances that your phone will be stolen or go missing at some point in your life, even if you are extra careful. So, use the tips here to protect your electronics and hopefully get them back in the event of theft. Don’t panic, just be prepared.