[Cp-bulletin] GPS Informational Bulletin

[Sgt. Cheryl Vossmer]

Informational Bulletin

Issued: June 3, 2008

Thefts of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are on the rise in the
Cambridge and Boston areas, including MIT. In Cambridge, between May 15 and
June 2, 2008, there have been approximately 15 car windows smashed
and 8 GPS systems stolen in the MIT vicinity.  In 7 instance, the GPS
mounting bracket was visible in the vehicle, but the owner had removed
the unit. The theft of these high value items can bring in quick cash
for the thief who sells them in pawn shops, and online lists.

Thieves are looking for criminal opportunities. They look for the GPS
suction cup or the faintest mark of the suction cup or mounting bracket
on the windshield or dash. These vehicles become potential targets. The
thief will smash the window and rummage through the interior of the car
looking for the GPS or any other valuable property.

So, what can you do to prevent the thief from breaking into your car?

*Don't keep value items visible in your car. Lock them in the trunk
_before_ you arrive at your final destination.

*Remove the suction cup or support cradle on your windshield or
dashboard. Clean the suction cap marks from your windshield.

*Maintain Serial Numbers - most people who have had their GPS stolen
have no idea what the serial number to assist in the recovery.

*We recommend that you password protect your electronic devices when
possible.

*When parking if you have an car alarm, remember to set it. The thieves
are breaking into vehicles day and night.

*If you see something or someone suspicious please call the MIT Police 
at 617-253-1212, or
utilize a blue light emergency telephone or dial 100 from an Institute
telephone. Please program the MIT Police telephone number into your cell 
phone.

If you dial the main MIT telephone number you would need to state 
"EMERGENCY" to the
voice activated call system. All 911 calls from a cell phone, go to the 
State Police in Framingham.
911 calls from VoIP go to the Cambridge Police.

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MIT Police            617-253-1212
Building W89
301 Vassar St.
Cambridge, MA 02139