On some campuses theft of “personal property” is a significant problem. Popular targets for thieves include bicycles, laptop computers, portable electronic devices, books, and leather jackets. Do not tempt thieves or make it easy for them to take advantage of you. Follow these guidelines for protecting your property:

• Lock the doors to rooms, apartments, and cars.
• If you have particularly valuable articles (such as jewelry and documents), rent a safety-deposit box at a bank and keep them there.
• When you are in a library, bookstore, or other public place, do not leave your possessions unattended. In particular, do not leave a backpack lying about.
• If you have a bicycle, buy a strong lock and use it.
• Do not display large amounts of cash. Be cautious about withdrawing cash from an ATM after dark.
• If you take a vacation, make arrangements for a trusted person to check your room or apartment every day. Have the post office hold your mail if someone cannot collect it for you. Stop the delivery of any newspapers that may be coming to your door. If appropriate on your campus, let your campus police know that you will be gone.
• Do not give personal identifying numbers such as a social security, bank account, or credit-card number to anyone you do not know and trust.
• Buy renter’s insurance