Different Types of Commercial Theft and How to Prevent Them

Shoplifting

Not all guests come into your establishment in peace. Some are looking to fill their pockets and leave you empty-handed. Install CCTV, mirrors, and short shelves so that employees can easily monitor visitors. Consider anti-shoplifting devices and display locks for small-and-expensive products. Anti-theft signage on windows threatening full prosecution is also a great way to intimidate would-be criminals.

Employee Dishonesty

Unfortunately, your employees are not always going to be on your side. Dishonest employees can pocket money, products, and even equipment. Actively participating in your business is key. Practice proper bookkeeping, monitor transactions, and track inventory closely. If you are not able to do this physically, then consider hiring a third-party professional to audit property and monitor employees. Offering meals and discounts to employees can also deter theft and boost morale.

Robberies and Burglaries

We do not recommend playing hero when a criminal enters the business with a weapon. In the event of a robbery, we advise you give the criminal what they ask for and put your safety first. Of course, you should have cameras rolling around the clock and install height markers on doors. This way, you can help authorities identify the criminal. Signage indicating that the premises is under surveillance can help dissuade would-be criminals.
As for burglaries, or theft when the property is unoccupied, you should invest in sophisticated video surveillance. Proactive video monitoring and virtual guards are great here. More on these later.

Vandalism 

If someone takes your shoes but does not wear them or even sell them, have they stolen from you? Of course. The criminal does not have to profit in order for the crime to be considered theft. Vandalism is a serious and common crime that has serious consequences for your business’ reputation and bottom line. Again, video surveillance is important but proactive monitoring is key. You want to stop the criminals before they have a chance to destroy your property.

Get Proactive Video Monitoring and Virtual Guards

Running a profitable business is a time-consuming effort, and theft eats away at your hard work. Rather than invest your limited time on preventing theft, why not hire professionals? In fact, why not employ sophisticated technology as well? Proactive video monitoring uses advanced technology and artificial intelligence to filter out false alarms and notify virtual guards of actual threats. Virtual guards then use two-way audio to warn trespassers and command them to leave the property. Video and audio footage will be used to cooperate with local authorities upon the owner’s request. Call ArcEye Property Defense to learn more about this next-gen property protection.