Computer crime

Computers are attractive to burglars, as they are easily saleable. Particular attention must be given to securing computers and making them easily identifiable. You should ensure that back up systems are in place to retrieve programs that would be lost on the hard disk if the computer were stolen.

In particular you should: -

* secure computers to furniture , walls or floors. A wide range of products is on the market to secure computers, whether they are used for business or domestic use. The simplest is the steel core cable which loops the equipment to the table or desk it is sitting on.

* Computers should in any case be kept in a secure room that can be locked when the building is unoccupied.

* Mark the equipment with distinctive brands, logo's ,post codes. It would be useful to fit anti theft warning labels on the outside of the computer. Ensure that lap top computers are adequately marked.

* Record details of computer serial numbers and keep them in a locked drawer.

* In an office you should conduct regular
audit of the equipment. A member of staff should be given specific responsibility for carrying out regular audits and generally keeping a watch to ensure that equipment has not gone missing.

* Consider fitting an alarm system to the computer, this should be fitted by an approved security equipment company.

The advertisers in this handbook would be pleased to give advice on the appropriate
alarm system for your equipment.

* Remember that it is the computer that thieves will be interested in stealing. The monitor and keyboard hold little interest to them.

* Inform your Insurance company that you have a computer. They may wish you to carry out additional security measures before insuring the equipment.

* Keep systems, disks and copies of data away from the computer and keep them locked in a secure cupboard when you are away from the business or home.

* Consider tagging equipment using electrical article surveillance methods.

* Where computers are being used ensure access control to that room to prevent unauthorised use and prevent inappropriate people from entering the room.