|
|
Introduction to Operation PC IDOperation Identification is a nationally recognized theft prevention program that involves indelibly marking and/or engraving property with traceable ownership information, and recording manufacturers' serial numbers and owner-applied identification information in a property inventory. The VCU Police Department promotes Operation ID to discourage theft and internal losses. Property, which is permanently marked, is difficult to pawn or convert to personal use by thieves.
Operation PC ID and the VCU Student Computer Initiative
In conjunction with the VCU Student Computer Initiative and utilizing the original Operation ID program, the VCU Police Department has developed Operation PC ID where students and staff can register their computer. Right now only one computer may be registered per person. Each registration is added to our database for future reference. No user information is shared with any other entity. The information registered by each user is used by the VCU Police Department only. All VCU Students are required by the VCU Student Computer Initiative to register their computer system with the VCU Police Department and indelibly and clearly mark their equipment with a personally identifiable code to prevent theft. To register your computer complete form Operation PC ID and mail or return in person to:
VCU Police Department
Attn: Records Department
938 W. Grace Street
Richmond, VA 23284
How should I mark my computer for Identification?
First of all, do not engrave anywhere on your computer. Engraving causes high-speed vibrations that can damage your computer and/or void your warranty. Instead, you can indelibly mark (with a permenant marker) the two-letter abbreviation for your licensing state and your driver's license number (on your DMV ID card) in a visible place (example - T67191234VA). With this information, police can query your state's drivers files to obtain your name and address if your property is recovered. Please be aware that if you elect to mark a personal code composed of a combination of numbers and letters on your property, the police will not be able to identify you using this code. On computers owned by VCU, staff should mark "VCU" and the office's complete telephone number (example - VCU8048281196). If the computer is owned by the Medical College of Virginia Hospitals Authority, mark "MCVHA" and the office's complete telephone number (example - MCVHA8048281196).
Important Reminder
Remember to record the marked "owner-applied" information, manufacturers' serial numbers, and property descriptions on the Operation PC ID form. Keep the inventory form in a safe place in your files.
Assistance
If you need assistance with using Operation PC ID, contact Lieutenant Frank Weaver at 828-2025 or email him at foweaver@vcu.edu. Remember - Visibly marking your equipment may deter a thief from stealing your property. However, you should never leave your property unattended in a public place or non-secured location.
Current Status of the Operation PC ID Online Database
The online database is undergoing maintenance and is scheduled to be back online late September 2007. If you need assistance with using Operation PC ID, contact Lieutenant Frank Weaver at 828-2025 or send a message to him at foweaver@vcu.edu.