In recent weeks, computers and other valuables have been stolen in the Chalmers area.
‘We need to think about protecting our valuables and avoid letting in unknown individuals,’ says Erik Eliasson, one of Chalmers’ security coordinators.
In addition to the theft of four laptops from the CA building during lunchtime, computers have also been stolen in the Chemistry building and elsewhere on campus.
‘We have seen a certain increase in the past weeks, both in thefts and in break-ins,’ says Erik Eliasson.
Both the CA building and the Chemistry building are undergoing reconstruction, which may have created favourable conditions for the perpetrators.
‘It might be that they take the opportunity when many people are moving in and out of the buildings. Sometimes thieves wear clothing that makes them look like they are doing some kind of job, or they may be taken for regular staff or students and are let in,’ says Erik Eliasson.
‘But we also have several examples of individuals who have entered buildings and forced their way through locked doors.’
Lock valuables away
He offers some concrete tips to reduce the risk of being robbed at work.
‘Be careful with valuable property – both the university’s and your own. Always bring your valuables with you or lock them away in a lockable cabinet, even if you are only away for a short time. Do not leave things out overnight or during the weekend, whether in an open-plan office or in an office with visibility from outside.’
According to Erik Eliasson, this is the most effective approach, as it is difficult to completely eliminate the risk of unauthorised individuals entering the university’s premises. Still, there are things that can be done in that area as well.
‘Do not let unknown people in through locked doors. If someone says they have a meeting with someone, ask them to wait outside the locked area and contact the person they are meeting.’
‘If you want to be both responsible and polite, you can accompany the person to where they claim to have their meeting – but make sure the host is actually there, and if not, escort the visitor out again,’ he says.
The thefts on campus have been reported to the police. There are currently no suspects.
Facts / How to prevent thefts
- Be careful with valuable property
◦ Do not leave it unattended, not even for short periods.
◦ Do not assume property is safe just because it is behind a locked corridor door (or equivalent). - Do not let unknown individuals in through locked doors.
- If you open a window, make sure it is closed before you leave the room.
- Avoid storing valuable property in student lockers or similar, especially overnight.
- Report the loss of an access card immediately and be very cautious about lending it out.
- Consider whether it is appropriate to secure your laptop with a computer lock (Kensington lock).
- Report suspicious behaviour to your nearest manager or the Chalmers security team (031-772 44 99).