MARYLAND UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND ADDRESSES LAPTOP THEFT ISSUE ON CAMPUS DiamondbackOnline.com: Officials warn commuters of laptop theft, hackingThe great thing about laptop computers is their portability, allowing users to take them anywhere.

The downside, however, is that same portability allows other people to easily take them anywhere.

Thirty laptop computers have been reported stolen in the past year, according to police records, moving the Office of Information Technology and University Police to focus on IT security issues for commuters who bring the computers on the campus.

Although University Police spokeswoman Maj. Cathy Atwell denied a recent surge in laptop thefts, university officials said the computers are particularly alluring to thieves.

"Since laptops are so portable and valuable, they are targeted across campus, from residence halls to classrooms and lounges," said Sgt. Laura Dyer of the University Police's Crime Prevention Unit. "They should never be left unsecured and unattended."

University Police officials suggest using layers of security to protect laptops and all property.

"If a laptop is stored in a room or office, that room should always be locked if it is unoccupied," Dyer said. "Next, start adding additional layers of security. One secondary security device is a portable laptop cable that secures a laptop to a table or desk."

Moreover, laptop users should also be concerned about viruses and worms, unauthorized account access, file sharing, hacking and eavesdropping - the top five threats to computer security for commuters, according to Project NEThics, an organization within OIT.

Eavesdropping is especially prevalent among users of wireless networks, which send the signals into the air and leave them open for the taking. Eavesdropping can be used specifically to intercept passwords, credit card numbers or other personal information, which can lead to identity fraud. By setting higher security levels and encryption software, laptop users can prevent eavesdropping.

To avoid computer hacking, OIT suggests installing a firewall and not leaving network connections open while away from the computer.

Software can also be used to help protect laptops, Dyer said.

"These programs can help track where a stolen computer is being used, and some can even remove sensitive data remotely," she said.

Commuters can also protect their computers through the STOP Tag program, which is a nationwide program that uses security plates that adhere to laptops, Dyer said.

Once adhered, it takes 800 pounds of pressure to remove a security plate. Even if the plate is removed, a tattoo is chemically etched into the casing reading "Stolen Property" and displaying an 800-number used to recover the computers.

Customers report significant theft reduction when using STOP Tag, according to the University Police website. Manufacturers' statistics show nine out of 10 computers lost or stolen that have a security plate are recovered.

The STOP Tag costs about $15, while cables to fasten laptops to desks cost about $40, according to the University Police website.

Commuters concerned about computer safety can attend Commuter Hot Spot, sponsored by Project NEThics, on April 7. The event will coordinate with a national Cyber Security Day on April 4, sponsored by the National Cyber Security Alliance, according to OIT spokeswoman Amy Ginther.

More information about the STOP Tag program can be found at www.stoptheft.com.