It should come as no surprise that laptops top the list of most stolen gadgets. They are small and attractive for black market resale. Switched.com has put together a list of the top 5 most stolen gadgets, and steps you can take to prevent theft, or to minimize its consequences.

The 5 Most Stolen Gadgets:

1. Laptops - tips include locks, passwords, insurance, encryption and tracking software
2. Cell Phones - use a password, call your cell company to deactivate it, call the police
3. GPS Devices - remove the device and its mount when you park, use a friction mount (so no ring is left visible), also use a password, close car windows, and install a car alarm
4. Car Stereos - remove faceplate, use a security code, use a car alarm, log serial number
5. iPods - use other headphones, conceal the player, be careful where you take it (subways, schools)

Continue reading at Switched for more tips.

Tags: stolen gadgets, gadgets, it security, security, theft, gadget thefts, laptop theft, laptop security