Overview
USC requires that you immediately report the loss or theft of any USC-owned devices containing University data, per the Acceptable Use Policy. Time is of the essence so that we can mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to University data stored on your device.
Follow the guide below if you lose a Dornsife-managed device such as a:
- Phone
- Tablet
- Laptop or computer
- Storage device
A note about data security
All Dornsife-managed laptops and external storage devices are encrypted to meet USC information security requirements, and the data stored on these devices cannot be accessed without a password.
Reporting lost or stolen Dornsife devices
Step 1: Obtain a police report and contact DTS
- Report the loss or theft to the appropriate authorities—either local law enforcement or DPS—and obtain a police report.
- Contact DTS at ts@dornsife.usc.edu or 213-740-2775.
- You don't need to wait until you have the police report to contact DTS, but we do need a copy of the report once it's available.
Step 2: DTS locks your device to prevent misuse and contacts SOC
If the device is a phone, tablet, laptop, or computer, DTS locks the device to prevent further use. DTS also contacts USC's Security Operations Center (SOC), CC-ing you.
Step 3: DTS and SOC provide further guidance
SOC investigates the incident and will contact you to request additional information.
Meanwhile, DTS consults with you to arrange for a replacement device if needed and to help you retrieve any files that you saved to cloud storage prior to device loss/theft.