SOUTH AFRICA COMPUTER THEFT STATISTICS HARD TO FIND IN SOUTH AFRICA :: rekord.co.za ::

You may ask yourself what the chances are of having your computer or laptop stolen or buying a stolen computer or laptop.
According to ITCrimes, there is no way of knowing because statistics on computer theft are not readily available in South Africa.
Neither is there disclosure from the South African Police Service, insurance companies or businesses about the amount of computers or laptops being stolen.
ITCrimes’ own investigations reveal an average of three computers or laptops are stolen during a robbery on business premises.
Laptops are smaller and more portable, making this theft easier.
To ensure that you buy a registered computer or laptop, register the item at www.itcrimes.com.
Five crucial points to consider when buying a computer or laptop are:
* Never buy a computer from vendors on the street,
* When buying a computer from a person through classifieds, insist they register at the above-mentioned website to produce a valid registration certificate. Probing questions like how much they paid, why they are selling and from who they purchased it, will also assist in the decision whether to buy the computer or not,
* When buying from a second-hand dealer, ensure the local police, second-hand dealers and the pawn board certifies it,
* If buying from a computer dealer there is still a chance that some of the components are stolen and fitted into the new casing. Have the computer registered on the ITCrimes website for verification and
* Do visual checks.