Bicycles and e-scooters are a popular and eco-friendly way to get around campus, but at the University of Utah, they’ve also become a target for theft—especially when left unsecured.

“The University of Utah Police Department takes bike theft seriously and works hard to keep campus safe—yet thefts persist because of poorly secured bikes,” said Lt. Jeremy Davis of the Investigations Division.

During October 2025, the University of Utah Police Department (UUPD) reported an increase in unregistered and improperly locked bikes being stolen from racks, buildings and other common spaces. In response, campus safety officials are stepping up patrols and calling on the campus community to take extra precautions to protect their rides.

“The Department of Public Safety has observed a spike in bike and e-scooter thefts and has responded with proactive patrols by campus safety officers and police, safety education and partnerships across campus,” said Todd Justesen, associate director of Clery Programs & Compliance. “Our greatest priority on campus is your safety and we need you to report suspicious behaviors or out-of-the-ordinary observations.”

Anyone who notices suspicious activity is encouraged to report it by calling 801-585-2677.

To assist in protecting property on campus, UUPD is sharing some steps to help reduce theft.

Register your bike with Commuter Services
Bike registration helps authorities identify and return stolen bikes. It’s free and fast and can make all the difference in getting a bike back if it’s ever lost or stolen.

Register your bike through Commuter Services.

Always use a U-lock correctly
Cable locks can be cut in seconds. A sturdy U-lock is the best defense against theft. Lock the frame and at least one wheel to a solid bike rack in a well-lit, high-traffic area. Once you register your bike or e-scooter with Commuter Services, you can get a free U-bolt lock from the Department of Public Safety by showing your confirmation email at the front desk, building 202.

Hide an AirTag or other Bluetooth-based tracking device on your bike or e-scooter
Even the most secure lock can be bypassed with enough time and advanced tools. It’s highly recommended that you hide an AirTag on the bike to increase the odds of recovery.

Don’t leave your bike unattended for long periods
If you’re leaving for more than a short break, take your bike with you into your office, classroom or residence hall room. When leaving campus, it’s best to bring your bike inside or store it in a secure area.

Record your bike’s details
Keep a note of your bike’s serial number, make, model and color. Taking a photo for reference can help with recovery and insurance claims.

Report suspicious activity
If you see someone tampering with a lock or lingering around bike racks, contact the Department of Public Safety immediately by calling 801-585-2677.

With increased campus awareness, these steps can help protect against bike theft and keep the U’s campus safe and rolling smoothly.