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Shoplifting
By Daphne | May 6, 2008
Be attentive when shopping or going to a bank. There are some places that have very little security as a cost cutting measure but as the economy is in flux more banks and stores are being robbed.
Shoplifting is a problem because it makes prices increase for everyone and also then frequently stolen items may be under lock and key. Don’t think it happens. Look around when you go shopping and the items that are locked up are not necessarily the most expensive items, just the most stolen items.
When you are in a bank or even using an ATM, it is important to be aware of your surroundings but also be aware of those near you. I went to the bank recently (a real brick and mortar free standing bank) and looked at the bulletin board on my way out. On it there was a warning for customers about a pair of pickpockets in the area who distract a person by sneezing or starting a conversation. When the victim turns around to say “God Bless you,” or makes small talk, the person ahead of the victim steals the person’s wallet or something from their purse.
During prosperous times, fewer people are engaged in criminal activity such as armed robbery. During difficult financial times, desperation sets in and some people turn to theft. Not everyone is caught.
Those who aren’t caught affect the bottom line. A bank that had only one security guard, that suddenly has two shows that more crime has occurred. As you see low priced items locked up or with additional sensors attached to them those are signs that those are items frequently stolen at that store.
Even Jean Valjean in Les Miserables stole bread because he was hungry. You may not know why people commit theft, whether out of need or greed but by paying attention you will be able to keep yourself from being a victim.
Topics: May 2008 |