How to Spot a Potential Shoplifter
There are a number of tell-tale signs and red flags for a possible shoplifter. Here are some of the top things to look for...
Retailers lose millions every year due to shoplifting – and most shoplifting is committed in the afternoon, and Saturday is the peak day.
There are a number of tell-tale signs and red flags for a possible shoplifter.
Here are some of the top things to look for.
Frequent Store Visits
Watch out for people who visit your store regularly but don’t make any purchases.
Oversized Clothing or Bags
Keep an eye out for large purses, open bags or backpacks where they can easily conceal stolen items. Or wearing oversized clothing that could easily fit items inside.
Watch out for groups
Shoplifters often work in groups. Groups may split up so one can steal while the other distract employees. Or they could simply take different parts of the store.
Distracting Staff Members
In fact, any sort of distraction or diversion may be a sign of a shoplifter. If anyone asks excessive questions or needs help in one specific part of the store, you may want to pay special attention.
Watching Staff
Shoplifters tend to pay more attention to staff than the merchandise. If you notice someone looking at you constantly, you may want to pay special attention.
Picking up Multiple Items
Shoplifters will often pick up multiple items throughout the store so it won’t seem strange when they pick up an item to steal.
Returns & Refunds
Many shoplifters will return the items to the same store from which they stole them. Watch out for someone returning lots of the small sizes, because clothes typically are organised with the small sizes in front/on top.
We also recommend you keep an eye on shoppers who:-
- Avoiding eye contact
- Excessively sweating
- Lurking in corners or the dressing rooms
- Linger in one particular area, especially near the exit
- Look around constantly
- Fidgeting / nervous behaviour
- A brisk exit
- Loss Prevention
- Dealing with shoplifters is crucial and by having strong security strategy is key.
Retail Security Specialists
Trained to the highest standards, our retail security guards are experts in identifying and responding to matters such as loss prevention, gang related activities, juvenile delinquency and anti-social behaviour.
For further information please Call 1300 566 379.