ASK THE DA: Week of December 1

Due to an increasing number of requests related to theft of cellphones, this week’s column will highlight tips distributed by theNew York City Police Department to avoid becoming a victim of theftof electronic devices.

• Always be mindful of your surroundings and do not becomedistracted by your electronic device.
• Keep your electronic devices out of sight.
• When carrying laptops or tablets, try not use traditionalcarrying bags so that the contents are not as obvious.
• Avoid using electronic devices on the subway, and if doing sodo, not sit near car doors.
• Close or silence your cell phone so that the ringer does notbring attention to you in public.
• Consider using hands-free devices when using your cellphone.
• Never give your cell phone to a stranger. If the situationappears to be an emergency, offer to place the call.
• If a stranger asks you for the time, do not remove your cellphone to answer the inquiry.
• Always report suspicious activity to the police.
• Use the password lock feature on your electronic device, whichwill stop unauthorized users from changing the settings and gainingaccess to your personal information.
• Keep a separate record of serial numbers for all of yourelectronic devices.
• For Apple Products, consider activating the Find my I-Phonefeature.
• Register your devices with the New York Police Department’sOperation ID Program. Visit your local police precinct to haveyour electronic devices registered and marked with invisiblepersonal information.
• Immediately report a stolen phone or electronic device to thepolice.

To have future questions or concerns answered please forwardyour inquiries to www.asktheda.org.