iPod theft is a growing crime of opportunity. Ira Mellman of WTOP radio offers several iPod self-defense techniques to help you avoid becoming a victim of iPod theft. Here's my quick and easy summary of the better points. Yes, it's really just common sense, but hopefully these tips will help you think about whether you're making yourself a possible target.
1. Put your iPod in a pocket. It's easier to grab an iPod from someone's hand than from a backpack, purse or pocket.
2. Switch from white earbuds. Those white earbuds are an easy iPod "tell" according to police. Use less identifiable third party earphones of another color or shape.
3. Lower the volume. Step out of the iPod daze and become more aware of your surroundings.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
5-10-2007 @ 5:34PM
Kevin Little said...
'Put Ipod in Pocket" Speaking as someone whoose had one stolen I realy appreciate such insightful help.
http://www.ebizmba.com
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5-10-2007 @ 5:36PM
Andy said...
seriously??
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5-10-2007 @ 5:45PM
Jared Childress said...
I have an iPod dock mounted on the dash of my 1993 Mustang convertible, with aux input cable running to my stereo. A few weeks ago someone cut a two-square-foot hole in the roof to break in... I suppose they thought an iPod was inside, but they only got away with a (broken) radar detector. The dock is handy though, because I can use my Apple remote to change tracks while driving. Plus I can have the all-dangerous videos playing while driving. ;)
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5-10-2007 @ 5:50PM
sam said...
#4 - Take a self-defense class and next time sometimes tries to steal you iPod you kick him in the balls.
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5-10-2007 @ 6:37PM
andrew harrison said...
Andy:
"seriously??"
iawtp
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5-10-2007 @ 6:51PM
Ahmad said...
haha, I grew up listening to WTOP....
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5-10-2007 @ 7:28PM
Jerry Brito said...
Targus makes a great security lock for iPods. It's a lot like the security cables you can get for your Macbook. It attaches to the iPod's dock connector, has a keyless combination lock, and the cable is retractable. Pretty cool if you need to leave your iPod alone in a public or semi-public place.
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5-10-2007 @ 7:48PM
JeffDM said...
Kevin Little, can you please stop your spamming now? I don't care for that crap.
Anyway, hiding the iPod is the first thing. Not wearing the "I'm a sheep, Jobs is my shepherd" headphones helps too. Nobody has to know what you own.
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5-10-2007 @ 8:00PM
bluray said...
Carry Body Guard LE-10 pepper spray I do. Let's say they will get more than a surprise if they try something.
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5-10-2007 @ 8:43PM
NutMac said...
Or use Microsoft Zune (brown one). No one will touch you.
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5-10-2007 @ 9:20PM
Reg Muffet said...
@NutMac,
Good idea. But perhaps just a Zune shell for the actual iPod?
(A case that makes your iPod look like a Zune could actually have a good novelty value. Might even be worth a booth at Macworld '08!)
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5-10-2007 @ 11:42PM
ThunkDifferent.com said...
Awesome. i could use this in the lower ninth ward on my bike rides there through New Orleans. oh wait... i would never use this.
http://ThunkDifferent.com
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5-10-2007 @ 11:52PM
Dan Woods said...
@Reg Moffat
It could be called "The Downgrade".
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5-11-2007 @ 12:32AM
jbobmurph said...
Just protect yourself. For God's sake. Knee in the crotch, pepper spray to the face, something.
Or my preference - a bullet to the brain. Then your friends and neighbors will be safe, too. And not just your ipod.
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5-11-2007 @ 8:55AM
mmcmonster said...
How about some defense tips for that poor guy who bought a Zune? Maybe to turn the volume up so he doesn't notice when people are making fun of him?
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5-11-2007 @ 11:28AM
Tim H said...
3 words... concealed carry permit.
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6-04-2007 @ 8:36PM
Ken Westin said...
Then there is GadgetTrak (http://www.gadgettheft.com) which helps you track your device electronically.
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