The Central Square rape comes at a time of heightened tensions around the state. A string of sexual assaults and attempted assaults at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and nearby colleges in the western half of the state has raised fears among many college students.

"[Students] should always be conscious of their safety, especially in areas they don't know as well, like Central Square," HUPD Sergeant Robert J. Kotowski said. "They should use all the methods of safe transportation available."

One of the most effective precautions students can take to improve personal security is to not wear headphones while they are out alone, Kotowski suggested.

Wearing headphones can distract a potential victim from his or her surroundings.

Last Monday's crime was an anomaly in Cambridge, which reported a 41 percent drop in rapes over the first three quarters of 1999. That drop continues a near constant 10-year downward trend in so-called "stranger rapes." Acquaintance rapes, where the victim knows the attacker, are more common.

The CPD asks anyone with information about the crime to contact Sergeants McSweeney or Sullivan. They can be reached at 349-3370 or 349-3301.