Personal property
Mobile phones and tablets
Steps to take when protecting mobile phones and tablets:
- Be aware of your digital footprint and what information is available about you. Review online security settings on social media sites for example.
- Make a note of your IMEI number. It can be viewed on screen by pressing *#06#. This is a unique code specific to your phone or tablet.
- Enable use of touch ID recognition (if available) and pin password all your devices.
- Consider using and enabling the available tracking software for your device.
- Make sure your devices are insured, they will not necessarily be covered by existing contents insurance.
- Report thefts to Security Services on 0117 928 7848, and to the police via 101 or 999.
- Avoid storing passwords or other personal information on your device.
- Consider the use of immobilise to register your devices. Immobilise is recommended by the police.
Bags and purses
- Try and wear your bag so that the strap is across your body, with the opening closest to your body. Keep at least one hand free to use to defend yourself or prevent injury during a fall
- Theft is often committed by opportunists who take advantage of the unaware and uninformed.
- Try not to advertise your most valuable possessions, for instance, putting your bag or purse on a table or chair unattended, this is extremely attractive to would be thieves.
- Keep an eye out for suspicious activity, make sure to report anything unusual to the Security Control Room on 0117 9287848.
- Keep your bag in sight at all times, preferably on your person if you can.
- It does not take much to lose your bag or purse with all your cash, bank cards and ID, leaving you vulnerable to identity theft.
- If your bag or purse is stolen, make sure you cancel bank cards as soon as possible.
- Take a good look at the contents of your bag, wallet, or purse. For example, you may not need to take all of your credit/debit cards with you every time you go out.
Information security
The University has an information security website. Here you will find information security policy, helpful tips on protecting your devices and there is mandatory training for members of staff that can be completed online.
If you suffer a data loss (or suspect that you may have) you must report it to the Information Security Team (email: cert@bristol.ac.uk).
For more information please see the UK governments website on getting safe online.
