SAFETY CORNER is dedicated to providing you with tips for being safe in your personal life.

Laptop computers and tablets can serve as a great convenience but also carry a heavy responsibility as they are prime targets for theft. Here are some tips for preventing theft of the device or information contained on them:

• Do not leave a laptop or tablet unattended or unsecured in a public place including a hotel room, even for a moment. Use a locking cable to secure your system to a desk or other immovable object.
• Nearly 40% of all laptop or tablet thefts occur in offices. Be sure to secure your electronics in a locked cabinet or take them home with you.
• If your laptop or tablet contains a wireless device make sure it is turned off or disabled when not in use.
• Be sure to use the latest security measures by ensuring your laptop or tablet is password protected.

We use laptops and tablets for everything from online banking to storing important documentation. Be sure to take the proper steps to protect your device and your identity by ensuring you have antivirus software on your device.

Be wise about Wi–Fi in public wireless networks such as coffee shops, libraries, hotels and other public places. Before you use a public Wi–Fi network, see if your information will be protected. If you use an encrypted website, it protects only the information you send to and from that site. If you use a secure wireless network, all the information you send on that network is protected.