With the festive holidays approaching, much pressure will be put on the retail sector to tighten up its security measures in an approach to deter shoplifters. Whilst shoplifters operate at any time of year, the research identifies that up to 80% of a whole years shoplifting takes place in the run up to the festive period.
It is important to note that shoplifters come in all shapes, sizes and colours. Shoplifters can efficiently be identified by their body language, the way they act, and also the way they dress. Baggy clothes, hoods, caps and sunglasses are common clothing items that shoplifters utilise to hide their identity and conceal stolen merchandise.
SHOPLIFTERS USUALLY OPERATE IN PAIRS
As stated above, shoplifters commonly work in teams of two or more. For this reason, it is important to be extremely vigilant at all times as you monitor the premises of your place of work. In the event that you have more than one shoplifter to contend with, you may find that whilst one of the pair may be shoplifting, the other may try to employ a range of distraction techniques, diverting your attention away from the immediate situation. On the other hand, they may both be shoplifting at the same time. As a security guard, you will have been trained in using dynamic risk assessment. Using this technique, quickly assess the situation and determine the appropriate action to take. Always go for the most prominent one who you feel you can do a risk assessment, and detain them if required.
WATCH OUT FOR QUICK GRABS
The term ‘quick grabs’ refers to when a lone shoplifter will go into a store, grab an item near the front door, and then run out. In this instance, again, dynamic risk assessment is essential. Are you able to apprehend the shoplifter? Is the risk worth the price of the item? Make sure your actions are in compliance with the store policy on how to deal with shoplifters. Whether you are required to monitor, detain the shoplifter, or take details and notify the police, in any case, never leave the store to run after a shoplifter if you are guarding alone, as this tactic in itself could also be a distraction technique.
BE WARY OF THOSE WATCHING OTHERS
Before a shoplifter commits the act of theft, they will have already located their target, found the locations of every CCTV camera, and identified an appropriate exit route. When these have been identified, the shoplifter will be scrutinising your every movement, looking for a golden opportunity to take advantage when your back is turned, and your focus is elsewhere. Be aware of people who linger around without purpose, observing the premises and covertly watching everyone else without taking a direct interest in the merchandise.
FALSE ALARMS
Shoplifters will usually use false alarms as another tactic to avert your attention. One tactic could be to walk close to the doors to set the alarm off purposefully as a guise to avert your attention. Whilst you check the baggage of other shoppers, the shoplifter will have a chance to complete their mission with ease.
NERVOUS BEHAVIOUR
Most shoplifters are either very experienced or very inexperienced – there is no in-between. Inexperienced shoplifters, often first-timers, will undoubtedly exhibit nervous behaviour in their attempt for fear of getting caught. If you notice a customer displaying this behaviour, a handy tip could be to offer them assistance and engage in conversation, ultimately preventing the occurrence of theft. First-time shoplifters rarely turn aggressive and may even apologise when caught!
Stay safe, keep calm, be vigilant, and never accuse anyone of shoplifting unless you are absolutely sure. Most importantly, under no circumstances should you use physical aggression on a thief, and if a shoplifter is armed, do not apprehend him.
Your life is more important than any piece of merchandise!
How to work in the security sector
If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain an SIA Licence.
To obtain an SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.
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