Essay On Shoplifting Techniques

There are many techniques that may be utilized in order to prevent, detect, and deter shoplifting. Roberson and Birzer describe a few of these techniques in “Introduction to Private Security”. Considering shoplifting is a common problem among businesses, many companies utilize one or more of these techniques in order to deter and prevent loss. In today’s world, technology is becoming more and more advanced every day. In turn, prevention and detection techniques are becoming more advanced and effective. Some large businesses spend millions of dollars on loss prevention every year. I will start by describing some of the more traditional techniques many businesses still utilize today and work towards the more technologically advanced techniques

An average store employees can be trained in antishoplifting techniques. They need to be trained to watch subject for abnormal behavior. They should watch for people walking weird or with an abnormal gait. Store employees should always use caution when thinking about apprehending a shoplifter. Instead an employee can approach a suspected shoplifter and ask them if they need assistance with anything. This may deter the subject from carrying out with his or her plan to shoplift if they know someone is watching. If an employee does observe a subject attempting to shoplift he or she should immediately inform a supervisor and contact law enforcement. Anything beyond that should be handled according to company policy.
A business may choose to monitor fitting rooms. An unmonitored room is an ideal place for shoplifters to carry out their business. People like to go into these rooms and put merchandise under their clothes and try to steal them. When a subject goes into a room an employee should be placed at the entrance of the fitting room and should keep track of the number of items a shopper takes in and out. A store should also install noise making devices so that when a door opens people are alerted to the fact someone is going in or exiting the