Protocol for Lost or Stolen Laptops at University

If you discover that your university-issued laptop has been lost or stolen, it's essential to take immediate action to protect sensitive information and minimize potential risks. Here's what to do if you have lost or had your university laptop stolen:

Report the Loss or Theft: Notify your department head and the university IT department immediately upon discovering that your laptop is missing. Time is critical in reporting a lost or stolen laptop to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive university data.
Remote Lock and Wipe: If your laptop contains sensitive or confidential information, the IT department may remotely lock or wipe the device to prevent unauthorized access. This action helps safeguard sensitive data and prevent potential breaches.
File a Police Report: If your laptop was stolen, file a police report with the local authorities. Provide as much detail as possible about the circumstances of the theft, including the make, model, serial number, and any identifying features of the laptop.
Change Passwords: Change passwords for any accounts or applications accessed from the lost or stolen laptop to prevent unauthorized access to your personal or university-related accounts.
Notify Campus Security: Notify campus security if the laptop was stolen from a secure area within the university. They may take additional security measures or review surveillance footage to identify the perpetrator.
Request a Replacement: Contact the university IT department or your department's equipment provider to request a replacement laptop. Provide any necessary documentation or information required to expedite the replacement process.
Take Preventive Measures: Learn from the experience and take preventive measures to safeguard your devices in the future. Encrypt sensitive data, use strong passwords, and avoid leaving laptops unattended in public places.

Remember that a lost or stolen laptop poses a security risk and may compromise sensitive information. By following these steps promptly and thoroughly, you can help mitigate potential risks and protect your personal and university-related data.