Your phone:
Password-protect your phone
A strong password is vital to ensure that only you can access your phone. Read our guidelines on setting strong passwords.
Many smartphones also have the option to set up biometric authentication such as Touch ID or Face ID as a stronger method of password protection for your device. We recommend you use this option if it is available to you.
Set up location technology
Most smartphones have features that will track your phone location, such as the ‘Find My’ App on iPhone or ‘Google Find My Device’ for Android. This can be useful if you lose your phone or if you suspect it has been stolen.
Register your phone
You might want to register your phone and other electronics with Immobilise so the Police can return them to you if they are found.
Make a note of your device’s IMEI Number
Every phone has an IMEI number which helps Police and insurance companies to identify it if it's stolen. Find your IMEI number by dialling *#06# from your phone and keep a written note of it. If your phone is stolen, call your service provider and quote the IMEI number. Your service provider can isolate your phone so no one else can use it.
Backup your phone
Always keep important data on your phone backed up using iCloud or Google.
Your bike
- It’s a good idea to invest in a bike lock so that your bike is not an easy target for thieves.
- When coming onto a UAL site, make sure you are aware of the bike store offering in advance.
- It’s important that your bike is in good condition so that it is not unsafe for you to cycle. UAL periodically run free bike repair sessions with Dr Bike that you can check out.
Your UAL ID Card
It’s important for the safety of yourself and the UAL community that you keep your ID card safe. To request a new ID card, contact the Student Centre at your College or Institute for guidance.
- Do make sure to request a new card as soon as you know that you have lost your ID card. This will render the lost card inactive and unable to access UAL sites.
- Do not lend your card to friends or strangers. It’s important that ID cards are used solely by their owners so that the University can be sure of who is where they are supposed to be. Refer to the student access premises policy (PDF 110KB) for further information.
Using an ATM
- Try to look for any unusual devices attached to an ATM before you use it - if something looks strange, it may be safer to use a different ATM.
- When entering your pin, try to cover the keypad and keep an eye on your card. If someone taps you on the shoulder or tries to speak to you when using the machine, try to ignore them if you can.
- It's good practice to regularly check your transactions on your online banking and keep an eye out for any that you do not recognise.
Working in public spaces
- Pickpockets may operate in busy areas in London. Keep your bag closed and don't leave valuables on the back of a chair or by your feet where you can't see them.
- If you can, leave important documents (like your passport and BRP card) safe at home.
- Never leave your valuables unattended.
Access support
- In an emergency, always call 999.
- If you're deaf or hard of hearing, you can use the Police textphone service 18000 or text them on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergency SMS service.
- If your valuables have been stolen, you can report this online or call Police on 101.
- If you would like to speak with a trained counsellor for support, free, one-to-one, confidential counselling is available to all UAL students.
Source: Information on this page has been sourced from the Metropolitan Police.