UWPD, Coe Library Offer Advice to Prevent Theft

University of Wyoming Libraries personnel are reporting an increase in thefts, as thieves are targeting unsuspecting students who leave their belongings unattended.

To deter thefts, UW Libraries administrators encourage students to be aware of their surroundings and to never leave their valuables unattended. Suspicious activity can be reported to the main circulation desk in Coe Library in-person or by calling (307) 766-3190, or by calling the UW Police Department (UWPD) at (307) 766-5179.

Additionally, the UWPD advises that opportunistic thefts are very common toward the end of the semester. Bicycles, textbooks and electronic devices are the most frequently stolen items.    

The UWPD offers the following suggestions to avoid theft of electronic devices:

-- Do not unlock or prop open exterior doors after hours. Use the assigned entrance with card reader access to enter buildings after hours and on the weekends. The Engineering Building is unlocked from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and locked on the weekends except for special events scheduled through the Central Scheduling office.

-- Ensure offices are locked and, if possible, secure valuable assets within offices. The targeted items to date have been computers, especially Apple computers, but all assets should be secured where possible.

Regarding computers, the UWPD advises:           

-- Record model and serial numbers.

-- Back up valuable data to a network drive or flash drive regularly.

-- Lock laptops in drawers or cabinets, or take them home at night.

-- Secure desktop computers to fixed objects with cables and locks.

-- Use software such as the "Find my iPhone" app and passwords to protect devices.

-- Take keys home at night or lock them in a drawer or cabinet.

-- Take all valuable non-UW personal property home.

-- Document research or intellectual property and keep additional electronic or hard copies in a secure place.

-- Be aware of people in the building who may be visitors or otherwise unfamiliar, and ask if they need assistance finding someone.

-- Report any concerns or anomalies to the UWPD at (307) 766-5179.