Almost half of education establishments have been victims of mobile ICT (Information and Communications Technology) theft during the last three years, new research has revealed.
The data from LapSafe Products shows that 45% of schools, colleges and universities had mobile devices, such as laptops, netbooks, MP3 players, tablets and gaming devices, stolen between 2009 and 2011. More than a quarter of them (27%) had mobile ICT equipment stolen in 2011.
Laptops were the most common device stolen over the three-year period (42%), with 11% of institutions experiencing netbook theft since 2009. MP3 player theft and tablet computer both affected 4% of establishments, while gaming devices were stolen from 1% of institutions.
Although 83% of those surveyed claim their organisation has an ICT security policy in place, almost a quarter (19%) of these policies do not include guidelines for physically securing devices. In addition, almost two thirds (65%) of education establishments questioned have not been given training on how to protect their mobile ICT devices from theft.
The data also reveals that 56% of education establishments do not encrypt their laptops, despite half of respondents stating that they were aware of the penalties that could be levied if unencrypted laptops containing sensitive pupil details were lost or stolen.
The figures are based on the results of an email survey of 100 UK schools, colleges and universities undertaken by LapSafe Products at the BETT Show 2012.
Denise Crouch, director at LapSafe Products, believes the findings highlight the need for educators to take greater steps to physically secure their mobile ICT.
“Our research suggests that theft of laptops and other mobile ICT devices from UK schools, colleges and universities is on the rise. Although the exact reasons for this increase are unclear, it is likely that the economic downturn and the fact that education establishments are often hotbeds of technology is somewhat responsible.
“It is vital that educators have sufficient plans in place to reduce the risk of mobile ICT theft. This should include measures for physically securing laptops, netbooks and tablets, and should be supported by regular IT security training to help avoid the negative consequences of having devices stolen.”
LapSafe Products has created a free downloadable infographic with simple tips to help keep valuable technology safe.