Miscellaneous thefts (items which are left unattended and then stolen) and criminal damage to motor vehicles have seen a sharp increase, up by 15 and 12 incidents respectively.
Satellite navigation systems and mp3 players are among the items commonly being stolen from students.
In total there were 269 crimes committed against students in October 2008, compared to 172 in October 2007.
Criminal damage to cars increased from seven incidences in October 2007 to 12 in the same month this year.
There were 30 miscellaneous thefts against students in October this year, compared to 15 in October 2007.
Cases of rape, racial harassment and common assault against students were all lower in October 2008 compared to October 2007.
But theft and burglary have increased. There have been 67 incidences of burglary from student dwellings in October this year, an increase from the 59 incidences reported in the previous year.
In total, all crime in the city centre has fallen by 13 per cent, including robberies which fell by 48 per cent and vehicle crime which fell by 23 per cent.
South Yorkshire Police hope to continue a reduction in crime by granting City Centre Ambassadors further powers, such as the right to take names and addresses of people acting in an anti-social manner and issuing them with fixed penalty notices, which usually range between £40 and £80.
Nevertheless, South Yorkshire Police believes that simple things can be done to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
PC Paul Briggs, PC Clive Tyree and PC Simon Nolan of the City Centre Neighbourhood Team said: "Criminals are breaking into cars even if they see the sat nav cables or the mark a suction pad leaves.
"It is important students remove all valuables and also any sign that valuables could be present in a car.
"Sheffield’s crime figures are low compared to other areas but students can prevent miscellaneous thefts by not leaving personal belongings in areas where loads of people have legitimate entry, such as communal areas or bars.
"Common sense can prevent a lot of crime.
"Make sure you walk in groups or get a taxi, and stay in well-lit areas."
Kayley Dempsey
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