Electric scooters have become one of the most popular ways to get around Missouri State’s campus — they’re fast, fun, and eco-friendly. But with their rise in popularity has come something less welcome: a rise in scooter thefts.

Since the beginning of the semester, several e-scooters have been stolen from campus bike racks. In nearly every case, the scooters were not secured with the required U-lock — instead, they were left unlocked, loosely chained, or secured with thin cable locks that can be cut in seconds. This photo shows a properly secured e-scooter:

Campus Safety is asking all students, faculty, and staff to take a few extra seconds to lock smart and lock right.

Why MSU Requires U-Locks

Our campus policy requires that all e-scooters parked on university property be secured using a U-lock (also called a D-lock). This isn’t just a rule — it’s your best defense against theft.

Here’s why:

• Hard to cut: U-locks are made of hardened steel and resist bolt cutters far better than cable locks.
• Secures the frame: They allow you to lock the scooter’s frame (not just the wheel) to a solid rack.
• Fast deterrent: Thieves target easy opportunities. A scooter with a U-lock takes time, tools, and risk to steal — most won’t even try.

How to Properly Secure Your Scooter

When parking your scooter:
1. Use a U-lock every time — even if you’ll be gone for just a few minutes.
2. Lock the frame and one wheel to the bike rack or fixed anchor.
3. Avoid handrails, fences, or signs — only use approved racks.
4. Pick visible, well-lit areas near entrances or security cameras.
5. Register your scooter with Transportation Services — it helps us return recovered scooters faster.

If you’re unsure how to lock your scooter properly, stop by the Campus Safety/Transportation office at 700 E. Elm Street or look for our ‘Lock It Right’ posters around campus.

What Campus Safety Is Doing

• Increased patrols around high-traffic scooter racks.
  • Expanded camera monitoring near common parking zones.
  • Collaboration with Springfield Police to track and investigate reported thefts.

Policy Reminder

Under the Missouri State University Transportation and Safety Policy:

“All personal e-scooters and bicycles must be secured with a U-lock when stored on campus racks. Improperly parked or unsecured scooters may be impounded by Campus Safety.”

This policy helps keep campus walkways clear, property secure, and thefts down — and it only works when everyone does their part.

Final Thoughts

Your e-scooter is an investment — protect it like one. A $40 U-lock could save you from a $400-$800 loss.

Take a few seconds to lock it right every time you park. Together, we can keep campus rolling safely.

If you notice suspicious activity near bike or scooter racks, contact Campus Safety at (417) 836-5509 or through the Bear Shield app.

Missouri State University Campus Safety is committed to protecting what moves Bears forward at MO State!