Follow the Trail

February 6, 2012 by Staff Editor

I never fail to see something new in my internal cases. Sometimes it makes me laugh. Sometimes I think about how much more productive they could have been if they had only used their evil genius for good instead of bad. Sometimes I just look at the employee and sigh. That’s how this last case was. One big “did you really just do that and think you wouldn’t get caught” sigh.

Clothing security is a huge focus in our stores. Many an inventory loss has been avoided because of our diligence. We do a great job using Checkpoint tags to coincide with our clothing alarm. With security tags on clothes, the losses we do incur are easier to track. Take this employee for example.

I was reviewing our report for clothing alarms that happened before and after hours. One incident had shown up. When I reviewed on our CCTV system, it showed an employee leaving with one of our brand new jackets and a pair of pants on. I reviewed her during the day and saw that she had come in to work with a different outfit on, and no bag. When I reviewed for a purchase, there wasn’t one.

This employee had stolen a brand new outfit for her date that night. She said she was going to return it, which is why she didn’t bother to take the clothing security tags off.

If it hadn’t been for the clothing security tags, the clothing alarm wouldn’t have gone off. It was an easy case; you just followed the obvious trail she left behind.

Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase a clothing alarm or clothing security tags.

For more information on Checkpoint tags, clothing security, clothing alarm, or clothing security tags contact us at security tags on clothes or call 1.770.426.0547

Jewelry- Pretty and Pretty Frustrating

February 6, 2012 by Staff Editor Leave a Comment

As I look across my desk at work I see the usual suspects: Pen, paper, computer, half drank coffee cup, and empty packages. Lots of empty packages. I know that this is a normal sight for most LP or retail Managers. It’s hard to prevent shoplifting when things are so small and easily concealed. Things like the empty jewelry packages scattered daily across my desk.

When you think of all the retail anti theft devices out there, most are not conducive to small packages or things like jewelry. Jewelry is it’s own special beast. Tiny loose pieces that are often open and hard to wrap, tag, sticker or clamp. The packaging is often what has the anti theft devices on it, which is why the packages are discarded by thieves.

Well, now there is the Jewel Lok to save the day. Alpha Security has a few types of Jewel Loks to meet different criteria. They have Jewel Loks for stud and hoop earrings that attach directly onto the earring.

They also have what is called a loose jewelry solution. It is a small clamp that is covered in plastic to avoid scraping the jewelry. It is easy to attach to things like bracelets or necklaces that would easily slide off their packages or hang tags.

I know that once the new Jewel Loks are in place, there will be a drastic reduction on the amount of loss in that area. I also can’t wait to reduce the amount of clutter on my desk from stolen jewelry packages.

Visit the Loss Prevention Store for retail anti theft devices that can help you prevent shoplifting in your business.

For more information on how you can use retail anti theft devices to prevent shoplifting contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Jewel Lok, Prevent Shoplifting, Retail Anti Theft Devices

A Cut Above the Rest

February 6, 2012 by Staff Editor Leave a Comment

Even though more people area returning to work, the average wage is lower than previous jobs supplied. More and more people are turning to shoplifting or employee theft to supplement their incomes. It seems like everything is up for grabs these days. To stop shoplifting, the use of Checkpoint labels is becoming more of a necessity.

One of the biggest items stolen in grocery is meat. Meats can be an expensive part of a household’s grocery budget. When that budget is cut, some are turning to theft instead of eliminating that part of their nutrition. Checkpoint labels have a way to stop shoplifting these items. They have a soaker pad that contains a RF security label hidden inside.

Invisible to the shoplifter, these RF security labels are designed to integrate seamlessly into the meat packaging process. It is just as easy to place these soaker pads into the bottom of a meat tray, as any non-RF pad would be. Any one who has eve implemented a shrink reduction strategy knows that the easier it is to implement, the more likely a chance for success. Compliance comes from doing what you are already doing, just with a different product.

These RF labels are designed to remain activated even after contact with liquid. They are also microwave compatible. How cool is that!

Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase Checkpoint labels, Checkpoint security tags, and other RF labels that can help you stop shoplifting in your business.

For more information on Checkpoint labels, Checkpoint security tags, RF labels, RF security labels, RF security tags and how to stop shoplifting contact us at RF label or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Checkpoint labels, Checkpoint security tags, RF label, RF labels, RF security labels, RF security tags, stop shoplifting

Keeping Honest Employees Honest.

February 6, 2012 by Staff Editor Leave a Comment

Employee theft happens in many different forms. Most of the time we think of blatant merchandise or cash theft as the most prominent issue. One method that is often overlooked yet yields the potential for serious losses are refund fraud.

I worked an employee theft investigation where the culprit was an employee who worked at the refund desk. I noticed several of the same high dollar drill was missing from the store. I ran a report and noticed three of them were refunded in the same day. Suspicious? Very much so.

I reviewed the transactions on our CCTV system and saw the associate ring a refund without any merchandise present for the same customer in three separate transactions. Well now I know where that loss went! Because there wasn’t any actual product being returned, our inventory was now short the three drills.

While continuing the employee theft investigation, I noticed that this scenario happened several times with several different items. This case of employee theft quickly had reached the thousands of dollars mark.

Once the employee theft investigation had been concluded, we spoke to the employee. She stated that it was easy for her to do because no one ever looked at her returns. This was against our company’s policy to prevent employee theft. All high dollar returns were to be verified by a manager. Due diligence would have prevented these losses from occurring.

Most companies have policies in place for a reason. If they don’t have a policy, make one. Watchful eyes are the best way to keep employees honest. Don’t give them the opportunity, and they will be less likely to try to cheat the systems you have in place.

For more information on employee theft investigation, employee theft or internal theft contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 – Atlanta Georgia

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: employee theft, employee theft investigation, internal theft

Shoplifters are “Casing” Your Business Everyday!!

February 3, 2012 by Staff Editor Leave a Comment

There are so many different ways for thieves to commit theft within the four walls of any business that it can make your head spin. Everyday companies like checkpoint develop EAS checkpoint systems and everyday there are thieves plotting new strategies to steal. One of the ways that drove our loss prevention team nuts was using the fitting rooms or bathrooms to put on stolen clothing underneath the clothing they were wearing. Businesses that did not utilize any retail theft prevention such as the checkpoint system were left wide open to this type of thievery. The checkpoint system is an electronic article system that utilizes “hard” checkpoint security tags as well as “soft” checkpoint security labels.

Thieves case out different businesses anti shoplifting strategies to pinpoint the easiest targets. In speaking with suspects in post theft interviews it was a unanimous point made that those businesses that employed no retail theft prevention were the first targets on their list to perpetrate theft. The thieves would enter the store search for a checkpoint security system at the front, and then wander through the store to look for checkpoint security tags. Once they have determined the store has limited or no retail theft prevention they start selecting product they will be stealing. That is when they either conceal the product in large bags, on their person or attempt to get into a bathroom or fitting room to conceal under their clothes. Obviously sales personnel or loss prevention team members would attempt to employ anti shoplifting floor techniques but they fall short when there are several thieves at work in the store at the same time.

The Checkpoint security system is a great tool that is always vigilant regardless of how many thieves could be at work. The key is to ensure the checkpoint security system is set up correctly, all pertinent items are fixed with checkpoint security tags and the store staff is trained to audit, deactivate and react to the checkpoint alarm. Deterring theft via anti shoplifting devices such as cameras, checkpoint systems or extra lp team members should be the strategy for every business to maintain their bottom line. Thieves are constantly casing out store locations and honing new and improved theft techniques. What are you doing to ensure your anti shoplifting strategy is refined and at its best?

Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase retail anti theft devices from Checkpoint Systems.

For more information on Anti Shoplifting , Checkpoint Security System or Checkpoint Security Tags contact us at Retail theft prevention or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: Anti-Shoplifting, checkpoint security system, Checkpoint security tags, checkpoint systems, retail theft prevention

5 things will businesses consider when outsourcing background checks!

February 3, 2012 by Staff Editor

I’ll take this opportunity to address 5 frequently asked questions or concerns that arise when employers consider outsourcing pre employment screening.

1. Why is it beneficial to outsource criminal background checks?

Many human resources, security or risk management departments are already handling numerous tasks so it’s important to use a background check company to ensure important details are not overlooked.

2. Do background checks invade privacy?

No! Hiring managers can only investigate an applicants “public life.” For example, criminal background checks are the process of researching courthouse records for evidence of convicted offenses. This process does not invade personal privacy since criminal records are a matter of “public record.”

3. Is pre employment screening cost effective?

Yes! Background check experts believe employee background checks typically cost less than the total cost of a full day’s work for the same candidate. Now consider the risk involved when you gamble with unchecked applicants… the cost benefit ratio favors screening to encourage higher retention rates.

4. Do background checks discourage applicants?

No! Qualified candidates consider the process to be sound business practice so employee background checks actually encourage applicants to apply because they reinforce the message that your business is profitable and safe.

5. Is pre employment screening difficult to implement?

No! The process of outsourcing background checks can be handled quickly and effectively by a background check company. Background check experts can help any employers develop a program and provide all of the required pre employment screening forms in a very short time.

For more information on background check experts, background checks, criminal background checks, employee background checks or pre employment screening contact us at the background check company or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: background check company, Background checks, criminal background check, employee background checks, pre employment screening

Top Notch Security For Your Top Shelf

February 3, 2012 by Staff Editor

One of the best parts about my job is being sent around the country to conduct training classes. It’s a chance for me to break out of my normal routine and see how regional differences shape our outlooks. I gain valuable insight into loss prevention tactics and methods that are often very different from my own.

One of the topics that often come up is liquor bottle security. Where and how alcohol is sold varies by law from state to state. Some states only allow sales in certain stores marked only for the sales of wine and spirits. Other states allow anyone from the convenience store to the local big box chain to grocery stores to sell any time of day or night.

While state laws differ drastically, the fact that liquor is a high theft item is pretty universal. The need for liquor bottle security is across the board. One of the major players in bottle security is a company called Alpha Security. Their line of bottle locks like the EASy Bottle is top notch.

It’s a universal solution to a universal problem. The Bottle locks are great for not only preventing liquor bottle theft, but also for wine bottles. As I continue to travel and compare notes with my trainees, I always mention this line of products to them. It might just be the solution they have been waiting for to protect their top shelf.

Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase EASy Bottle bottle locks by Alpha Security.

For more information on Alpha Security , Bottle Lock , Bottle locks , Bottle Security , liquor bottle security or EASy Bottle contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Security Tagged With: Alpha Security, bottle lock, bottle locks, bottle security, easy bottle, liquor bottle security

Clothing security is a must for warm weather apparel.

February 3, 2012 by Staff Editor

Even though it’s still cold outside, many clothing retailers are marking down the cold weather product and making way for the new spring collections. For most it is also the beginning of the new fiscal year so the time to add clothing security, such as clothing security tags and a clothing alarm, is now. Here are the reasons why.

First, putting security tags on clothes is not really an option if you want to keep profits high. Shoplifting is at an all-time high and not store is immune. To add to the already theft laden market, warm weather clothes are the easiest to steal. It is pretty conspicuous when someone puts on a second jacket and tries to walk out. It is also obvious when large sweaters are stuffed under someone’s shirt. What is not obvious is when that women puts on a high dollar bikini and walks out. The customer who pockets the new sunglasses or steals a pair of shorts is not obvious. The smaller / skimpier products are just plain easier to steal and must be protected.

Since we have to put security tags on clothes I suggest using Checkpoint tags. Checkpoint tags are cost effective. Checkpoint tags are also reliable and known to shoplifters so they are a great theft deterrent. You will also need a clothing alarm from Checkpoint as well so that when the customer tries to walk out with concealed product you will be alerted and can respond to the potential theft.

The second reason to get your clothing security now is that it is the beginning of the year. The price of this investment isn’t going to change so by making this acquisition at the beginning of the year you get to reap the benefits of your investment for the full year instead of only part of the year. It just makes sense to get your full money’s worth by buying sooner rather than later.

Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase a clothing alarm or clothing security tags.

For more information on Checkpoint tags, clothing security, clothing alarm, or clothing security tags contact us at security tags on clothes or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Checkpoint tags, clothing alarm, Clothing Security, clothing security tags, security tags on clothes

Is your hair HOT?

February 3, 2012 by Staff Editor Leave a Comment

One of the hottest fashion statements a person can make right now is the use of clip in feathers and hair extensions to change their look. As most trends, these accessories can range in price and even go up into the hundreds while they are in style. This can be terrifying for the owners of beauty supply chains throughout the country.

Right now some of the top most stolen items, particularly in the Greater Atlanta area, are hair extensions (Click here for Story). These extensions are either synthetic or human hair and are extremely expensive in some cases. Beauty supply stores owners are having such a high theft problem with these items that in some cases they have to worry about their own safety. Luckily there are retail anti theft devices that can be implemented to help prevent these items from walking out the door.

Checkpoint Security Systems have several products that can be attached to these hair extensions (or weaves) that will sound an alarm if they are taken without going through the cash register. The Fashion2 Mini hard tag can be pinned through the woven part of the hair extension and is small enough to fit inside packaging in most cases. There are also retail security labels that can be attached to the outside of packaging and can also be used on other high theft beauty supply products, such as hair dye and high end scissors.

If you are a beauty supply store owner you have heard of these thefts and you are more than likely a victim, whether you know it or not. Stop letting your profits walk out and be made on the street. Stop shoplifters from stealing your high end weaves today!

Visit the Loss Prevention Store for retail anti theft devices that can help you prevent shoplifting in your business.

For more information on how you can use retail anti theft devices to prevent shoplifting contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Prevent Shoplifting, Retail Anti Theft Devices

Specific Solutions for Specific Problems

February 3, 2012 by Staff Editor Leave a Comment

Most retailers have very specific policies on how to stop shoplifting. Only certain employees can make apprehensions. Those employees must also follow certain guidelines, commonly called the five steps. It helps make a case in the courts, if need be. When you are working with a limited or inexperienced staff, sometimes it is hard to dedicate payroll dollars to stop shoplifting.

In those situations, it is easier to take a proactive approach to stop shoplifting. By utilizing a resource that doesn’t require major payroll hours, shrink losses can be reduced. Using checkpoint labels and checkpoint security tags are just that resource.

These tags and labels are easy to apply and difficult to defeat without the proper removal tools. They send a strong message to would be thieves. Even if an associate isn’t right there, the merchandise is still protected. It’s like having a silent bodyguard attached to your entire product.

The Checkpoint labels and Checkpoint security tags come in a wide array of products. This helps to give a specific solution to specific type of product. They have RF security tags and RF labels for just about every merchandise assortment you can think of! They will even do their best to customize your RF Security labels to fit your needs. Just let them use their expertise to be a resource for all of your shrink reduction needs.

Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase Checkpoint labels, Checkpoint security tags, and other RF labels that can help you stop shoplifting in your business.

For more information on Checkpoint labels, Checkpoint security tags, RF labels, RF security labels, RF security tags and how to stop shoplifting contact us at RF label or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Checkpoint labels, Checkpoint security tags, RF label, RF labels, RF security labels, RF security tags, stop shoplifting