Page 7 - FWG Issue 7 August 2025

Security

How to protect your
devices and your vehicle

The best defence: Full shutdown
The most effective way to make your laptop
invisible to scanners is to shut it down
completely. Do not just close the lid or put it
in sleep mode. Go to your menu and select
‘shut down.’ A fully powered-off device
emits no signals and will be undetectable.
This is the most critical step you can take if
you must leave your device in a vehicle.

The alternative: Disable Bluetooth
If you cannot perform a complete shutdown
for any reason, the next best option is to
manually turn off your laptop’s Bluetooth
feature before packing it away. While you’re
at it, disable the Wi-Fi as well for an extra
layer of security. This stops the device from
broadcasting its presence.

The Golden Rule: Don’t leave it behind
The only guaranteed way to prevent your Photo by Ocult Store on Unsplash
electronics from being stolen from your
vehicle is not to leave them in your vehicle.
Whenever possible, take your laptop,
tablet, and other valuable electronics with
you. A few moments of inconvenience are
far better than a broken window and a loss More on-the-go laptop safety tips
of hundreds or even thousands of rands Secure laptop bag: Place your laptop cable lock functions similarly to a
bicycle lock. You loop it around a fixed
in a cushioned laptop bag, preferably
Photo by Ruffa Jane Reyes on Unsplash ‘The Hidden Signal’ warning doesn’t just you don’t attract unwanted attention. lock it with a combination or a key.
in property, not to mention the invaluable
object, connect it to the laptop and
one that’s plain and inconspicuous, so
data that was on it.
You can purchase a high-tech cable
For added protection, opt for a laptop
lock with a motion sensor system and
bag made from slash-proof fabric and
apply to laptops. Tablets, smartphones, and
an alarm. When someone attempts to
featuring tamper-resistant zippers.
even some wireless headphones can emit a
discoverable Bluetooth signal.
purchasing a checkpoint-friendly
trigger the alarm, alerting you to the
laptop bag that allows you to walk
theft attempt.
In our hyper-connected world, convenience If you travel frequently, consider remove the laptop, the movement will
often comes with unseen vulnerabilities. By through security without removing
understanding how criminals are exploiting the laptop from the bag. Keep the Invest in insurance: A good insurance
this technology, you can take simple, bag on your person or within view at policy goes a long way. Get a policy
practical steps to stay one step ahead. A all times. that covers theft and loss of personal
few extra seconds to fully power down items. Ensure the coverage will be
your device can make all the difference, Get a security cable lock: A cost- sufficient to purchase a new laptop and
rendering your vehicle invisible to this new effective anti-theft device, a security its accessories.
wave of digital-savvy thieves.
SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING

Please report all security-related matters immediately, without delay.

A delay in reporting = a delay in resolution.

On-site Control Contact details:
011 465 5466 or 066 261 7671

Fourways Gardens • 5 • August 2025