Merchandising Security Services And Shoplifting

By Barbara Bennett


While most retail outlets use a number of different security services and devices, some are better than others. In addition, there are now merchandising security services offering 24/7 360 views of all areas of a location. As such, it is important to research all options before signing on with a security firm or service.

In most cases, electronic surveillance refers to these and other technical methods to prevent shoplifting. Whereas, individuals pilfering office supplies from office buildings and books from public libraries are also a concern. In most cases, these detection theft devices work with fixed tags which are placed on books and products.

When tags are attached, cashiers, library staff and clerks often remove the tags during the check-out process. Although, after a number of retail establishment saw a rise in the number of losses over the last few years, merchandisers began helping by encasing the tags inside the packaging of various products. As such, thieves would have to open the package to remove a tag which can often be more difficult to remove without getting caught.

While most all products at large retailers have devices and alarms, there are different options and types. Whether based on microwave signals, radio waves or electro magnetic technology, all seem to set off an alarm based on a theft detection tag of some sort. As such, thieves began using booster tags to cover or replace the tags originally placed on a number of items.

When owners or managers are selecting a theft detection system, is important to consider the efficiency factor. For, if alarms are caused by tags which have been scanned though not removed correctly, it can often cause store good customers. Whereas, having an alarm going off in error can still be embarrassing, especially if individuals whom have paid for items are stopped and searched after check out.

In most cases, well informed shoplifters are aware of how tags can be deactivated or removed while still in the store. In some cases, these individuals use booster tags which are placed over an original tag to block the detection sensor. Whereas, in other cases, individuals will simply find a way to remove the tag before leaving the store.

While this is the case, most shoplifters actually either miss or fail to deactivate or remove a tag from pieces of clothing and still get caught. Whereas, as a service to retail outlets, a number of manufacturers are now integrating security tags inside the packaging of products. As such, a shoplifter would have to open the package to remove the device, an action which could very well be questioned at the check out counter.

While there are a number of tools shoplifters can use to aid in removing tags, being caught with these tools in the United Kingdom and United States can also get the individual arrested. For, if found with the tools, individuals can now be charged with attempting to steal or suspicion of theft. As such, before stealing, individuals might want to consider the high cost of fines and jail time whether being caught with these tools or stolen merchandise.




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