The Digital Age has culminated in the invention of many digital electronic gadgets like Computers, Laptops, Smart Phones, Music Players, Tablets etc.
Gadgets have become essential for everyone and losing them can both be stressing and financially daunting.
Most devices have become ideal target choices for thieves because of their size, value, ease of concealing and ready market.
Criminals also opt for these devices because the legal benefit; property crime (theft) attracts a lenient punishment unlike crime against a person (robbery).
With that in mind,
What Is The Actual Cost of Losing Your Gadget?
There are many negativities that come with losing your electronic gadget. Although the replacement cost is what most people think about after losing their gadgets, there is a ton of peripheral costs that are overlooked. They include;
a. Replacement Cost. This is the actual cost of your gadget on the market. Imagine losing the new iPhone, Samsung etc. gadget that cost you over $800 to purchase? This is the most painful aspect of losing a phone and you will be required to spend money purchasing a new gadget.
b. Peripheral Costs. These are the overhead costs that came with purchasing/owning your phone. They include accessory costs like phone covers, software installation costs, configuration and loading replacement costs etc. Other unforeseen costs include the cost of lost time while your device is being replaced. This is both stressful and time-consuming, which adds to the trouble you are already experiencing.
c. Confidentiality Costs. The aftermath of losing your gadget is worse if your device was provided by your employer. Losing a corporate gadget can lead to the loss of crucial and confidential information belonging to your employer. If the information affects/harms the company or its reputation, you may be held liable for various legal obligations that can result into costly court cases.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of Having Your Electronic Devices Stolen?
There is a two-way approach, which guarantees to keep your device safe. Remember the point is to safeguard the device itself as well as the information contained therein.
Safeguarding Your Device
Never leave your device in plain sight where it can attract potential thieves. This includes in the house, office or even inside your car. Always ensure that no matter where you leave it, your gadget is hidden or concealed. Leaving it in plain sight is inviting trouble.
Always carry your gadget in a nondescript carrying case or bag when moving out with it. Be sure to use something that conceals your appliance completely. The best way is by carrying it in a safe bag that does not necessarily indicate that you have the gadget with you. Carrying such items, for example, laptops in a bag designed for laptops immediately alert potential thieves that you have these valuable devices.
Remember to always lock your devices under lock and key whenever they are not in use. Where usage intervals are short, you can consider getting cable locks.
Apply distinctive, legible and permanent markings on your devices after purchasing. This may be your initials or anything that will enable you to identify your device easily. Markings put away potential thieves since it is difficult to re-sell a marked device to an unsuspecting third party.
Record all the important numbers on your device and keep them safe. These include serial numbers, IMEI Numbers and the purchase receipts of each gadget. Also ensure that you know your device features like the make, model etc. as it greatly helps in tracking down your device if its stolen.
Other effective preventive measures include taking an insurance policy for your device. Normally, policies that cover electronic gadgets are lower compared to, a car or house. An insurance cover against loss by theft guarantees you will be fully indemnified upon loss. A comprehensive policy would, however, be the ideal option.
Safeguarding Your Information
As seen earlier, crucial information can be lost together with your device, leading to unprecedented costs. Safeguarding the information/data is hence as important as the safeguarding your device. Here are tips on how to keep your data/information safe.
Always use strong passwords to keep your information/data safe in your device. The most ideal passwords should include letters, both in upper and lower case, numbers, and initial marks. A strong password is an initial safeguard against people accessing your information.
Ensure your device comes with an inbuilt tracking service system, in case of loss. If it doesn’t, be sure to purchase and install premium tracking software apps from your service provider. Having a good tracking system on your device will help in tracing and locating your device in case of loss.
Access, use and link your information and data to cloud storage services. Cloud storage is not only safe, but also guarantees to give you all the saved data in real-time, and when needed. Cloud storage is a safe way of storing your data, which can be easily retrieved in case you lose the device. Online service providers like Google offer these services.
What To do After Losing Your Device
Immediately you lose your electronic device, take the following steps.
REPORT IMMEDIATELY to the Police. Ensure you have the required details mentioned earlier, namely details of your device like the model, make and features, serial and IMEI numbers to enable authorities to track it.
REPORT IMMEDIATELY to your service provider. Most providers are in a position to lock your device, thereby safeguarding your information during the search process.
Conclusion
The experience of losing your gadget is very stressful and costly. This is because the best electronic products are expensive to purchase and delicate. Because of their importance, electronic gadgets are prone to be stolen and re-sold at low prices. Safeguarding your gadget and information contained therein is crucial. Taking the above steps to will enhance your ability to keep electronic gadgets safe. In any case, prevention is always better than cure.