Register Your Laptop

Laptops and other portable electronic devices are easy targets for theft. In addition to the cost of replacement, they often have personal information and intellectual property that can be difficult or impossible to recover and protect. The University of Michigan Department of Public Safety is offering a free Laptop Registration Program to members of the campus community to deter theft and avoid the consequences or assist in the recovery of stolen property.

Once you register your laptop, you'll receive two stickers to place on your laptop. These stickers will help serve as a theft deterrent. Additionally, if your laptop is found or recovered, the registration record will help DPS return your laptop to you.

The program is intended for the University community. You will need a uniqname and UMICH Kerberos password for the registration site listed below.

[Click here to register your laptop with the University Police]

How it works

When you register your laptop, information about your laptop is collected by DPS through this Web site, in person at DPS, or by DPS officers at special events. You will receive an e-mail to your University [your uniqname]@umich.edu e-mail address confirming your information has been entered. Once the information is collected, two stickers will be mailed or given to you. One sticker is for the top of the laptop to be a visible theft deterrent. The second sticker is for the bottom of the laptop to list its U-M DPS registration number. This second sticker is manufactured to be difficult to remove and will leave a trace of its existence on the laptop.

You may register as many laptops as you need. If you no longer own a registered laptop, by sale, loss, or for other reason, you should delete the registration record by returning to the property registration section of this Web site. You also may call DPS at (734) 763-3434 to assist with your registration.

Example sticker for top:
Sticker for bottom:

Other methods to protect your laptop

A cost-effective method to deter laptop theft is to physically attach the laptop to furniture or another sturdy location. Most laptops have a Universal Security Slot (USS) to which you can attach a specially made security cable. If your laptop does not have a USS slot, then a laptop cable with an adhesive pad will work as well. There also are motion sensors and alarms that can be purchased for your laptop. See your local computer retail outlet for more information.

Remember:

• Keep the laptop with you, do not leave it unattended
• Keep the laptop out of sight; store it when not being used
• Label your accessories and carrying case
• Password protect your laptop

To report the theft of a laptop on campus, call DPS at (734) 763-1131. If you have questions about the U-M DPS Laptop Registration Program, e-mail us at public.safety@umich.edu.