The UK government has revealed a worrying trend: it’s struggling to keep track of its own tech. According to Freedom of Information (FoI) requests submitted by Apricorn, several departments including the Ministry of Justice, Department for Education, and NHS Digital have collectively lost or had stolen hundreds of high-value devices such as smartphones, laptops, and USB drives over recent years.
These aren’t isolated incidents.
- The Department for Education misplaced 309 devices between 2017 and 2019.
- The Ministry of Justice recorded a sharp increase in losses, from 125 devices in 2016/17 to 354 in 2018/19.
- NHS Digital also saw dozens of devices disappear over a two-year span.
Each of these items carries the potential for sensitive public data to fall into the wrong hands,
an especially concerning issue in an age of GDPR and heightened cybersecurity risks.
The Hidden Cost of Poor Asset Tracking
Beyond the financial impact estimated at over £1.3 million these losses raise serious questions about how organisations manage and secure their equipment. As mobile working becomes more prevalent, the risk of devices being lost or stolen increases. Without clear identification and tracking measures in place, recovery becomes nearly impossible.
Smart Asset Tagging: Protect What Matters Most
This is where Custom Labels Ltd can help. At Custom Labels, we specialise in durable, tamper-resistant labels and tags designed specifically to help businesses and institutions track, secure, and manage their valuable assets.
Tamperproof Ultra Destruct Asset Labels
Ideal for office environments, these labels are made from ultra-destruct vinyl that fragments upon removal. This makes them perfect for securing laptops, tablets, phones, and other portable electronics. They’re also UV-resistant and stand up to abrasions and moderate chemical exposure.
Ultimate Asset Tags™ – Built for the Extreme
For organisations needing high-performance asset tracking, our Ultimate Asset Tags™ combine polycarbonate durability with UV-resistant under-surface printing. Backed with powerful 3M 467 or 468 adhesives, they’re suitable for both smooth and slightly textured surfaces, ensuring a lasting hold even in demanding environments.
UltraTuff Asset Tags – Heavy-Duty Durability
When your assets face tough conditions, heat, chemicals, vibration, or rough handling our UltraTuff Asset Tags are up to the task. These labels feature a mark-resistant velvet finish and industrial-grade adhesive, making them ideal for flat surfaces in industrial, outdoor, or high-abuse settings.
Government departments are not alone in facing asset loss. Any business, school, healthcare provider or public body can fall victim to the same costly and preventable problem.
Contact us today for a tailored quote and find out how our asset labels can help secure your organisation’s most valuable equipment, then please do not hesitate to contact us on 01278 433800 or alternatively via sales@customlabels.co.uk.
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