Shoplifting & Return Fraud

Shoplifting and return fraud are two types of theft that can significantly impact retailers’ bottom line. Shoplifting is the act of stealing merchandise from a store, while return fraud is when a customer returns an item they did not purchase or returns an item that has been used or damaged. Both of these types of theft can result in lost revenue and can be challenging for retailers to prevent. However, there are several strategies that retailers can use to minimize their losses.

One way retailers can prevent shoplifting is by implementing security measures in their stores. This can include using security cameras, hiring security guards, and installing electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems such as a Sensormatic System that detect when merchandise is leaving the store without being paid for. These measures can act as a deterrent to potential thieves and can also help identify shoplifters when theft does occur.

Another way retailers can prevent shoplifting is by training their employees to be vigilant and to recognize signs of shoplifting. This can include looking for customers who are carrying large bags or who are dressed in bulky clothing that may be used to conceal stolen merchandise. Retailers can also train their employees to approach customers who are acting suspiciously and to offer assistance, which can deter potential shoplifters.

Return fraud can be more difficult to prevent than shoplifting, but there are still several strategies that retailers can use to minimize their losses. One approach is to implement strict return policies that require customers to provide proof of purchase and that limit the time frame in which items can be returned. Retailers can also use technology to track returns and identify patterns of fraud, such as customers who frequently return items without a receipt.

Another way retailers can prevent return fraud is by inspecting returned items to ensure that they are in the same condition as when they were sold. This can include checking for signs of wear and tear or damage, and verifying that all parts and accessories are included. Retailers can also use third-party verification services that specialize in detecting return fraud.

Remember, shoplifting and return fraud can be significant challenges for you as a retailer however, there are several strategies that can be used to prevent them. These include implementing security measures, training employees to recognize signs of theft, and using technology to track returns and detect patterns of fraud. By taking a proactive approach to theft prevention, retailers can minimize their losses and protect their bottom line.

If you would like more information please Contact Us or go to our web site at Loss Prevention Systems

Find Employee Background Checks

When you have a need for employee background checks and you are shopping different sites, make certain to investigate fully. To help you make a choice, we have assembled this list of facts for you to consider when buying employee background checks.

  • Make sure that you are getting an actual criminal record check from the state or county. No matter what you are told “database” checks are not accurate or up to date. We can do database serches but our clients want accurate information.
  • What is the turn around speed? 48 hours or less is standard. Hint: “database” criminal checks are “instant”
  • Be sure that there is service beyond the report.

These are the basic but important issues. Sincerely I expect that our check list helps you succeed. In case you are looking for greater detail you could call Loss Prevention Systems at 1.770.426.0547 and we can help. You may find useful many of the other posts on this blog that further explain . As you search around, visit trusted information sources and be careful that the information you read about employee background checks is written by someone who know what they are talking about.

For more information click: employee background checks

True Story Illustrates Why You Should Use An Expert For Background Checks

Here is a story that illustrates why using an expert for your pre hire background checks is a wise practice.

We were recently contacted by one of our clients and asked to conduct an investigation into a suspected embezzlement/theft by one of their employees.  During the course of the investigation, we discovered that the person of interest had been arrested and charged with seven counts of Credit Card Fraud, had been fined and served probation.

The individual had been hired as a temp-to-perm through a staffing agency that conducts employee background checks using a commercial database provider which is very unreliable. This commercial database provider returned “No Record Found”, not only missing the Credit Card Fraud, but also two separate instances of bad checks.

The employee admitted misappropriating more than $10,000 of the company’s money by manipulating the accounting.

It is always a good idea to conduct new employee background checks when an employee comes on board. Do not depend on a staffing company to do a thorough job.

Go here to learn more about incorporating background checks into your pre hire screening or call 1.770.426.0547 x102

Why Get A Criminal Background Check On Potential Hires

What results can an employer expect to find in a pre-employment criminal background check?

The first decision an employer must make in requesting a criminal background check is to determine how broad the search should be: national, statewide, or at the county level.  There is currently no national criminal record search available, except in very limited situations when an FBI fingerprint check is required.  The results of such a check take from 4 to 6 weeks to be returned to the inquirer.

A statewide search is broad, but can miss some crimes, as the statewide repository information is made up of arrests and dispositions reported by the various courts in the state, some of which may not report regularly if at all.  A county check is thorough and detailed, but will not uncover crimes committed in other counties or jurisdictions.  Not all statewide repositories are equal: some are limited as to years reported, severity of the crimes reported, and whether there has been a conviction or not.  Some do not report pending cases.  It pays to be aware of the limitations of the repositories that are used for the criminal check.

The FCRA, the agency that regulates the background industry, allows background screening companies to report all convictions revealed by the check; arrests with dispositions other than convictions may only be reported back seven years.

For further information, go to: criminal background check