Bike thefts on campus remain common and everyone's urged to be vigilant and to use the University bike marking scheme aimed at cutting crime.

John McIntyre, University Security Manager, told Campus e-News: "Thankfully overall crime on our campus remains pretty low. But the theft of bikes is the most common incident we face and the criminals responsible are highly organised.

"We know that bike thieves regularly come on campus trying to spot high value bicycles.  We have even had reports of people being see taking photos of bike racks, which then lets them take instructions about which machines to target.  The best way to counter them is to use really strong security on your bike: D-locks are especially good as they make life really difficult for the thieves.  They may be more of a nuisance to lug around with you, but they are more secure than cables and chains which can be easy to snip with bolt-cutters."

Bike Register

The Campus security team, working with BikeRegister, operate a University bike marking scheme aimed at cutting crime across campus. The well established UK online bicycle identification and registration scheme helps identify stolen bikes and assists in owner recovery. BikeRegister is used by every UK police force.

Once bike owners register with BikeRegister, they receive a number of benefits which mean their bike will be a less attractive target for thieves. If it is stolen, and recovered by the police, the bike is more easily returned. 

John McIntyre says: "Firstly, your details are held on the secure online database, which police forces across the country have secure access to. If your bike is stolen you can ’flag’ it as stolen on the database.

"BikeRegister also provides protection for buyers and sellers of second hand bikes. The ownership document is - in effect - your log book and provides proof of ownership for you and any  potential buyer. Those considering purchasing a second hand bike can also check a frame number with the BikeRegister database to confirm it hasn’t been reported stolen."

The scheme is open to all students and staff who use a cycle on campus and provided free of charge. Cycle theft is a growing problem on and off campus and very much a priority for campus security who highly recommend that cyclists participate in the scheme.

To register your interest simply send an email to: bikemarking@glasgow.ac.uk

You will then get information about the next BikeMarking event is taking place.

Security also provide a free gadget and valuables registration service through the Immobilise National Property Register. You can take your Mobile Phone and/or Laptop and have them registered whilst your Bike is being marked!

First published: 2 February 2016

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