Can they access my files?

If the laptop had full disk encryption (BitLocker/FileVault) enabled and a strong login password, they probably can't access your files. Without encryption, anyone who removes the hard drive can read everything - even without your password.

Do I need to tell clients?

If their personal data may have been exposed, yes - you likely have a legal obligation under GDPR. If only internal business data was at risk, it's a judgement call, but transparency usually builds trust.

Will insurance cover this?

Most business insurance covers stolen equipment. You'll need the police crime reference number. Data breach costs may be covered separately under cyber insurance.

What if I find it later?

If it was remotely wiped, you'll need IT to set it up again from scratch. If not, have IT check it for tampering before using it - sophisticated attackers can install persistent malware.

How do I prevent this happening again?

Encryption, strong passwords, device management for remote wipe, and never leaving devices visible in vehicles. Consider whether sensitive data needs to be on laptops at all.

Your Work Laptop Was Lost or Stolen - Act Now

Whether it was stolen from your car, left on a train, or disappeared from a coffee shop - a missing work laptop is a serious situation. The device itself can be replaced, but the data on it could damage your business, clients, and reputation. Here's what to do right now.

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Does This Sound Familiar?

Common signs you're experiencing this issue

Laptop missing from expected location
Bag stolen containing work device
Left device on public transport
Break-in at home or office with laptop taken
Device missing after travel

What's Causing This?

Understanding the root causes helps find the right solution

Opportunistic Theft

Devices left visible in cars or unattended in public places are easy targets.

Targeted Theft

Some thieves specifically target business equipment for data value.

Forgetfulness

Tiredness, distraction, or rushing can lead to leaving devices behind.

Break-ins

Home and office break-ins often result in stolen electronics.

How We Can Help

Practical solutions to resolve your issues

Report Immediately

Tell your IT team or manager straight away - they can remotely secure the device.

Remote Wipe

If your device is managed, IT can erase it remotely before data is accessed.

Change Passwords

Any passwords saved on the device should be changed immediately.

Report to Police

Get a crime reference number - needed for insurance and demonstrates due diligence.

In the First Hour:

Tell your IT department or manager immediately - This is not the time for embarrassment. The faster they know, the faster they can remotely wipe the device and prevent data theft. Every minute counts.

Report to police - Call 101 or report online. Get a crime reference number. This is essential for insurance claims and demonstrates you took appropriate action.

Change your passwords - Start with your email password, then any saved passwords for banking, cloud services, or client systems.

What Your IT Team Should Do:
- Remotely wipe the device (if this capability exists)
- Disable the device's access to company systems
- Check for any suspicious login attempts
- Review what data was on the device

Assess the Risk:
Consider what was on the laptop:
- Client data or personal information?
- Financial records?
- Passwords saved in browsers?
- Access to cloud systems?
- Confidential documents?

If Personal Data Was Involved:
Under UK GDPR, if personal data may have been exposed, you might need to report to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) within 72 hours. This sounds scary, but the ICO is reasonable when businesses act responsibly and quickly.

Prevention for Next Time:
- Enable full disk encryption (BitLocker on Windows, FileVault on Mac)
- Don't save passwords in browsers
- Use a device management system that allows remote wipe
- Consider whether data needs to be on the device at all - cloud storage is often safer

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this issue

Ready to Fix This?

Let's get your IT working properly

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Trusted By Local Heroes

Don't just take our word for it.

"Well all I can say is a big shout out to Sam James BSc at Fresh Tech for literally swooping into rescue🦸‍♂️ my computer from being hacked within seconds. Thank goodness I outsource to companies who know what they are doing."

Carole Aveson

CAA Administration Services