A report from silicon.com revealed a sharp rise in laptop theft in the UK. Data from the 28 UK police forces, who answered a Freedom of Information Act enquiry by silicon.com, showed an average year-on-year increase in the number of laptops stolen of six per cent. And it looks like the trend is continuing. High profile cases like the one including the Nationwide Building Society show how serious the problem can be when data is lost and personal data is compromised.

In Devon and Cornwall alone some 6,500 laptop were stolen during 2006, an increase of almost 15% from 5,735 in 2005 and this figure only includes laptops stolen while being used or carried outside of the office or home.

Although PC prices are being driven down making them accessible to almost everyone, if you are carrying around one of the more expensive models filled with all the latest features, insurance could be a lifesaver.

But before you make a decision about laptop insurance here are a few things that you can do to keep your laptop protected:-

- Buy a lock for your laptop. Most laptop computers have Universal Security Slot which will allow you to lock your PC to a solid object. Most cables cost less than £25 and can be found in most electronics stores.

- Lock your laptop up in a filing cabinet or out of site when you are finished using it for the day. If you are leaving it in the car, lock it in the boot.

- When traveling, keep your laptop with you at all times. Be diligent in places like airports, where people may distract you.

- Backup all of your important files, in case your laptop does become stolen or broken.

- Disable the guest account in Windows.

- Don't save passwords and don't save the websites you visited. This makes it easier for a thief to log on to your accounts and steal your identity.

- Check out the Immobilise website - www.immobilise.com and register your laptop. This could make it easier for the Police to contact you should you laptop fall into the wrong hands.

Considering Laptop Insurance

Laptop insurance is becoming one of the fastest growing specialist insurances and with low-cost monthly premiums it has never been easy to protect your PC. Many providers offer worldwide cover, accidental damage protection and a 48 hour replacement service.

Be sure to check the small print and ensure you are properly covered from the outset. If you are reviewing different types of cover make sure you see a copy of the policy and check the wording carefully so you full understand what you are being insured against.

Protect yourself physically with laptop security and financially with good laptop insurance. Hopefully, you will never have to depend on either. But if the worst comes about, you'll be glad you did.