Preventing theft at UCL – what you can do

Following a theft of UCL equipment at UCL East last December, we’re sharing practical guidance to help reduce the risk of similar incidents across campus. While thefts remain uncommon, small preventative steps can make a noticeable difference.

Consider your surroundings

Whether on or off campus, stay aware of your environment and keep your belongings close. Pay particular attention in busy or public spaces. Keep valuable items on you and out of sight wherever possible. Even leaving items unattended briefly – such as on tables or chairs – creates an opportunity for theft.

Protecting your equipment

• Asset tags – Use secure, tamper‑proof tags to deter theft and support recovery. Make sure these are securely attached and cannot be easily removed.
• Register valuables – Logging items on Immobilise helps to increase recovery chances. Registering your items also makes them harder to sell on.
• Lockable storage – Use locked drawers or cupboards, particularly in shared spaces. Hiding items alone isn’t enough to discourage theft.
• Record usage – Note serial numbers or take photos when moving shared equipment. This will assist with accurate reporting if the items go missing or are lost or stolen.
• Insurance – Check that valuable items are covered before taking them off‑site. Knowing what you are covered for can help you act quickly when items are lost or stolen.

If a theft occurs

• Report it to the Metropolitan Police providing any asset tag or registration details. This records the incident and increases the chances of items being identified and returned if recovered.
• Report it to UCL Security who can review CCTV and support with any ongoing police enquiries.

UCL Security contacts

• From a UCL landline – 222
• In an emergency – 020 7679 2222
• For non-emergency Security – 020 7679 3108

UCL tools to support safety and security

SafeZone: access to UCL Security

SafeZone is an app available to all UCL students and staff, offering a quick and simple way to contact UCL Security from your mobile device. It offers features for incident reporting, accessing support, and personal safety. The 'Check In' function is especially useful when working with high‑value items or in quieter areas, enabling Security to be aware of your location if needed.

riskNET: planning safe use of equipment

riskNET helps departments manage their safety responsibilities with tools that make safety planning simpler. When using high‑value items, users should complete a risk assessment in riskNET. This ensures details are recorded centrally and can be shared with Security for awareness and to support additional patrol planning if needed. Risk assessments do not just tick boxes – they should provide a 360̊  view of potential hazards, helping you spot what could go wrong and put smart, practical controls in place to eliminate risk or reduce it to a reasonable level.

Support services

Experiencing theft can be distressing. The UCL Crime Prevention and Personal Safety team provides confidential advice, reassurance and support if you've been affected by theft.

Further information

• Staying Safe at UCL – practical safety advice on tailgating, bike security, valuables, scams and more.
• SafeZone: Download & FAQs – details on downloading SafeZone and using its safety and reporting features.
• UCL Security – Main Service Information – emergency and non‑emergency contacts, operational details and service overview.

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