Merchandise Theft by Employees

September 2nd, 2010

THEFT OF MERCHANDISE BY EMPLOYEES

From a criminals point of view the next best thing to cash is merchandise that can be converted into cash easily. Sports gear, electronics dvd’s , you name it there is a market for it. As security specialists we deal with retail businesses on a weekly basis that are trying to eliminate theft of merchandise.

There are a number of measures you can put in place to prevent the theft of merchandise including the installation of covert cameras and highly visible security CCTV , however these measures will need to be supported by high profile supervision and security procedures, for example

Access Points
Staff access to the premises should be through one door only. By “funneling” people through one entry and exit point only you immediately reduce opportunities for smuggling goods off the premises. Security cameras outside the exit doors is recommended.

Storage Cases
Certain businesses get merchandise delivered in protective boxes, which can be used in domestic situations. If staff ask if such boxes can be taken you should only consent on the condition that they are checked by security when exiting the building. This rule should apply to all employees, no matter what level they work at.

Compactors
In larger business operations compactors are used to deal with the disposal of excess packaging. They are also perfect for temporarily hiding stolen merchandise. Again clearly visible CCTV cameras should be used to monitor the compactors. There should also be random checks to ensure they are not be used for the storage of stolen goods.

Limit Access
Certain areas such as “Goods Inwards” should be off limits to personnel who do not need to be there. By segmenting the business into different sections and only allowing access to employees that need it you make it harder for staff to steal.

Not all businesses operate in the same type of premises or have exactly the same routines but one thing is common to all. Where there is high value merchandise there is theft. Security cameras can play a part in the detection of theft but we recommend that they are only deployed after a full security audit is conducted.

Tags: Merchandise theft by Employees, Workplace Security
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taking Steps to Prevent Cash Register Theft

August 30th, 2010

PREVENTING CASH POINT THEFT BY EMPLOYEES.

Once an owner / manager is aware that not all is as it should be at the cash points then a series of inexpensive and easy to implement measures can be initiated. For example.

1. Covert Camera Equipment.
The mere presence of security cameras sends out the message that fraudulent behaviour is unacceptable and is been monitored. By using a combination of easy to install covert and visible security cameras cash point theft can be detected easily. Security cameras do not need to cost a fortune. With the advance of technology clear images can be collected at a low cost.

2. Individual Responsibility
This is such an easy measure to introduce that it should be done as a matter of course. Employees should be assigned to one till. It is therefore easy to track any discrepancies to any one individual.

3. Visible Management Presence
Let it be known that random cash point audits will be conducted and make sure supervisors follow through with the
instruction. Again this sends out the message cash transactions are monitored and any discrepancies investigated.

4. Software
For larger retail operations spread across multiple locations the tills probably incorporate advances functions that allow real time tracking of transactions. If your company does operate such systems then make sure anti fraud software is included.

At spycamwarehouse.com we focus on quality security systems for small to medium sized retailers. We do not supply
multinationals. Because our cameras have been used in a variety of retail outlets you can be sure that the quality of the security cameras is second to none.

But before purchasing a covert camera make sure you have tried all the suggestions that will not cost anything. For
example, the mere presence of an owner / manager around the cash points shows that staff are monitored and any
problems with transactions will be dealt with. In a busy retail or wholesale operation this can be difficult but it will save money.

Tags: Retail Theft, Workplace Security
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Theft by Employess – Tills and cash Registers

August 28th, 2010

THEFT AT THE TILLS – DETECTION AND PREVENTION

There are numerous ways by which an employee can steal from his employer. When a company is involved in cash transactions using a till this is where an employeer should focus the initial work. Whether it is through the use of security and covert camera equipment or visual observation, the effort and expense will be well worth it. In our experience working with retailers of all sizes, they have all suffered from theft by employeed at the tills.

So what form does cash register theft take ?

1. “No Sale”
In this case the employee manipulates the cash register to classify a transaction as a “no sale”. The customer is unaware that this is happening and hands over the cash. If any change is due, the customer receives it and the employee pockets the money from the sale. This is theft at it’s most basic and should becomes apparent when the cash is been “balanced” and lodged. A regular flow of voided or cancelled tranactions should ring alarm bells. This type of theft is normally committed by an individual acting alone.

2. Short Change
This is another unsophisticated form of cash register theft and affects the customer. In many cases an employee using a till will target vulnerable customers should as the elderly and “short change” them. Installing
security cameras that are focused directly on the till can help prevent this problem but the real solution is close observation by other staff and management. Customers can also be a good source of information. If you
operate a retail business it pays in more ways than one to have supervisory staff walking the floor and engaging with customers. Casual conversations can reveal a great deal about your business.

3. Theft with Accomplice
Some employees do not work alone when stealing from an employer and enlist the help of friends and family who do not work in the business. Some of the techniques include.

a. Check fraud. In these cases the employee willingly accepts a cheque from an accomplice knowing that it is fraudulent. The goods leave the shop and the cheque bounces a few days later. With the phasing out of cheques this type of fraud should diminish. However one way of preventing it is to stop high value
items leaving the premises until the cheque has cleared.

b. Card Fraud. Even on trade accounts many items are pay for using a credit card. Problems can arise if an employee processes a transaction with the knowledge that the card is stolen or fraudulent.

Even if you manage a multi million pound business spotting and preventing employee theft at a cash point should be relatively easy. In our next post we will look at the preventative actions you can take in more detail but the overall point that needs to be emphasised is the approach of management.

If an employee is stealing from the tills it should become apparent very quickly. If one employee seems to have a large number of voided transactions then there is obviously a problem. Taking swift action normally solves the problem.

Tags: Crimes against Business, Retail Theft, Workplace Security
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Why Do Employees Steal

August 23rd, 2010

WHY EMPLOYEES STEAL

Because the problem of theft by employees is such a big issue for businesses it can be useful to understand why employees engage in such criminal activity. Research has shown the main reasons are.

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1. Personal Circumstances
Employees are driven to theft by a feeling that they have no alternative. Perhaps a spouse leads an extravagent lifestyle but the financial resources are not available to support it. Rather than discuss the issue the employee resorts to theft. This can happen to even the most loyal and dedicated member of staff.

2. Employee Grudges
If a member of staff feels that they have been treated unfairly they can take the attitude of ” I’ll get my own back”. They steal from the business in order to “get even”.

3. Addicition
If an employee suffers from an additicition to alcohol or drugs they make need to pay for the habit. When they have easy access to cash and stock the solution can seem simple. Remember a lot of people addicted to alcohol or drugs can cover up the problem and function normally.

4. Ease of Access
In a lot of cases employees steal simply because it is easy and they are bored. It then becomes a habit and they justify the criminal action by using twisted logic. Because the theft is ongoing it does not stand out in management reports and gets ignored. Over a period of time the cost to the business is huge.

No matter what the reason there is only one way of stopping theft in a business and that is by taking highly visible, proactive measures. The effort and expense a business owner puts into implementing security measures will pay huge dividends. In the following series of posts we will be reviewing what actions management can take to eliminate theft by employees.

Preventing theft in a business takes effort. However the time and money spent on implementing robust systems will more than pay for itself. As spycam specialists we have a superb range of covert camera equipment. Everything we sell is fully guaranteed and tested. With out covert and hidden cameras preventing theft by employees is easy.

Tags: Employee Theft, Workplace Security
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Theft by Employees

August 20th, 2010

EMPLOYEES AND THEFT

No matter how large or small a business is, owners and managers are faced with problems on a daily basis. These problems can limit the vision of

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business owners and blind them to the “bigger picture”. Issues that are costing the company money can get lost in daily activity.

On average, for every £1 stolen a business much sell £10 of goods to recoup the loss. This statistic should be a warning to all business owners. Take time out of the daily grind and organise a rigorous security plan that addresses all issues including employee theft.

Monitoring solutions tend to focus on crimes committed by “outsiders” such as shoplifters. This is not always the best use of security resources. It is estimated that in the US that 46% of a company’s financial losses are the result of employee theft and there is no evidence to suggest that the figures are any different in the UK.

Employees have ample opportunities to steal from their employer and in the next series of posts we will be looking at the reasons why employees steal and the areas of most vulnerability in a business.

Covert camera equipment can be used in businesses of any size to combat employee theft. There are many options available from small wireless covert cameras to larger weatherproof versions. As security experts we have helped hundreds of businesses increase profitability by detecting and preventing employee theft.

Tags: Crimes against Business, Employee Theft
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Risk Management – Written Policy

July 29th, 2010

RISK MANAGEMENT – A WRITTEN POLICY

When a risk management team has been appointed one of the first tasks they should undertake is a thorough analysis of the current position, listing areas of risk in order of priority. If a team is already inplace a complete top down risk analysis should be conducted at least every two years.

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Documentation
The process of analysing risks and the formulation of policies to deal with them should be fully documented. It is vitally important that a company can produce externally verified evidence that it has instigated a proper process to protect customers and employees. This is particularly relevant if an employee or customer starts legal proceedings. In addition, organisations that do have a policy addressing workplace violence are 25% more likely to reduce violent incidents.

Business Types at Most Risk
Some companies are more vulnerable to violent incidents than others. The chances of violent incidents increase if any of the employees.

a. Handle cash
b. Deal with the public
c. Deliver goods or passangers
d. Work late at night
e. Work in high crime areas
f. Work in healthcare looking after vulnerable people.
h. Work alone or in small groups

Structure of Written Policy
Any written risk analysis should be broken into two main sections

a. External Risks : This should deal with the risk of violence such as robbery and physical attack

b. Employee Violence : This part of the risk assessment document should set out clear standards for employee behaviour, proceedures for dealing with employee misconduct and the consequences for unacceptable employee actions. All written policies should be reviewed by a legal expert.

Implementation of Policy
Breach of the policy should not mean instant dismissal. That is where the support and advice of the risk management team will be required. The severity of the offence will determine the actions that need to be taken. Our advice would be to adopt a zero tolerance attitude towards violent, aggressive or intimidating behaviour. A clear message should be sent to all staff that such behaviour is unacceptable.

For less serious offences, a verbal warning maybe sufficient but if there is an underlying problem such as drug addiction then as an employer you have the option of helping the employee. Even for smaller companies the facility to join Employee Assistance Programs is possible through organisations such as the Federation of Small Businesses. By offering “pastoral” care to employees there is a better chance of retaining valued employees during times of personal difficulty.

Taking the example of substance abuse it does not have to be full on heroin addiction. Something as simple as dependancy on perscribed medication that is taken on the advice of a doctor can cause problems in the workplace and is not the fault of the individual.

At all times you have the option of seeking assistance from the police.

Summary
Having a written risk assessment document and company policy is essential. It is not a legally enforceable document but can be used as evidence in the event of legal proceedings. At all times owners and managers should adopt a policy of zero tolerance when it comes to abusive behaviour in the workplace but for less serious breeches of company policy a more lenient policy can be adopted. There is also the option of asking the police to deal with the offence.

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Tags: Crimes against Business, Workplace Security
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Managing The Risk of Workplace Violence

July 27th, 2010

RISK ASSESSMENT TEAMS – PREVENTING VIOLENT INCIDENTS

In the last few posts we have focused on been aware of the potential for violent incidents in the workplace. A lot of the information and advice is geared towards larger companies employing at least 30 – 50 people. This does not mean that owners of smaller businesses should not be aware of the dangers. Although financial resources in smaller companies maybe limited it is still possible to put in place proceedures and plans to deal with violent crime. It can be something as simple as having a note book with telephone numbers for managers and emergency services in a place accessible to all employees or ensuring all temporary employees are briefed on the location of emergency exits. The important point is that business owners and managers are aware of potential risks and put in place a plan to deal with them.

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Risk Management Team
All businesses face risks on a daily basis. The type of risk will differ from one industry to another. For example the risks faced by a transport company will differ greatly from those faced by a beauty salon. No matter what industry you operate it it is essential that a risk management team be put in place. This team can be called in any time there is a violent incident or a concern that one may take place. It can also train employees how to recognise the warning signs of aggressive behavious, train managers and review insurance contracts.

The plan they put together to deal with workplace violence should deal with what to do before, during and after and incident.

a. Prevention : Preventative measures such as explaining the policy and the consequences of not following the policy

b. Actions : This section of the plan should outline the proceedures for dealing with a potentially violent employee. This includes monitoring, investigating , reporting and if necessary police involvement.

c. Post Incident Proceedures : This includes the management of the scene directly after an incident has taken place as well as counselling and public relations.

Risk Management Team – Composition
In larger companies spread over multiple sites it can make sense to set up a permanent risk management committee with 3-4 members who have specialist skills. This is a big overhead for any company and will realistically cost about £300K per annum in salaries and other costs.

The alternative option is to engage the services of specialist security consultants. They could be asked to conduct an annual risk assessment and also paid a retainer on a monthly basis so they will be available to deal with any incidents that occur.

The most expensive part of the process will be setting up the proceedures and communiting them to staff. Once a process is in place the effort required to update it should reduce.

Covert cameras equipment should be considered when drawing up a security plan. Covert cameras can be used for both static and mobile monitoring. Spycamwarehouse.com have a comprehensive range of cameras hidden in everyday objects such as smoke detectors and alarm clocks. To view our selection of covert cameras visit spycamwarehouse.com now.

Tags: Workplace Security
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Workplace Violence – Warning Signs

July 24th, 2010

SPOTTING THE POTENTIAL FOR WORKPLACE VIOLENCE

Contrary to most people’s perception incidents of violence in the workplace are not the result of someone “snapping”. The build up to the outburst can happen over a prolonged period of time. The root cause is normally stress and frustration. Both white and blue collar workers are under increasing pressure to work longer hours, take calls at home and even bring work on holidays. All these demands have a cumulative effect. Some individuals can let the pressure get to them and become self focused and absorbed. They are consumed with the feeling they are trapped and have no alternative. Options for expressing the built up frustration are limited. The person feels that nobody is paying attention to them.

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Managers and employees should be made aware of and trained to recognise the build up of stress in colleagues and try to prevent the situation escalating.

Warning Signs
A good manager / business owner will take time to “floor walk” and talk to all employees. Hearing on a first hand basis what frustrations and obstacles they
face on a daily basis. As well as helping to identify bottlenecks in the business it can also help identify potential problems that could escalate if not dealt with promptly.
Typical warning signs to look for include.

a. Explosions of temper
b. Acts very withdrawn
c. Low self esteem
d. Does not see humour in any situation
e. Mood swings
f Decreased productivity

There are many more signs that when analysed after an incident make sense. However by then it is too late and the damage has been done. That is why
it is so important for all people in a supervisory capacity to be able to recognise potential flash points. In all organisations there will be tensions between different personalities. A good manager / owner will recognise when these tensions develop into something more serious.

Tags: Crimes against Business, Violent crime, Workplace Security
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Violence In The Work Place – Types and Cost

July 23rd, 2010

THE COST OF VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE

As an employer you have a duty of care to your employees as well as the requirement to make a living from your business. Any disruption to the smooth running of the business should be avoided. Taking proactive measures will help reduce the possibility of disruption, particularly interruptions caused by violent crime.

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Classifications of Violent Crime
For some businesses the risk of violent crime is low but to fully assess the risk you need to understand the different types of workplace violence.

        a. Stranger Violence : Robbery of retail units is typical of this type of crime. For example some post offices in rural areas have been targeted.

        b. Client related Violence : This can occur in any type of business but it is most common in one on one situations such as those found in professional practices, and businesses such as beauty parlours.

        c. Employee Violence : This type of violence can be against other employees, customers or the general public.

        d. Personal Relationship Violence : When personal arguments are taken into the workplace violence may result.

The level of severity in any of the above classifications can range from mild verbal abuse to physical attack and assault.

Cost to Employers
When setting out a business plan you must include a Health and Safety Risk assessment. As an employer or manager you have a duty to protect your employees and all visitors to the workplace. It is also essential in order to protect your business both legally and financially. Putting in place measures to prevent workplace violence is not an optional extra. As an employer you will lose in many different ways because of violence in the workplace.

        a. The best employees may opt to leave rather than work in a stressful environment.

        b. There is then the cost of hiring and training new employees.

        c. The employees that stay may suffer from low morale and stress.

        d. Productivity may decline and absenteeism may increase.

        e. The company may have to pay additional insurance premiums.

        f. Legal fees may have to be paid

        h. The reputation of the company may suffer which in turn will affect sales.

The real cost of violent crime in the workplace will only become fully apparent after an incident has taken place. It is therefore essential that proactive steps   be taken to reduce the chances of it happening.

At the start of the article I mentioned the targeting of rural post offices. These business are usually run by older, more vulnerable business owners and the chances of there been a plan to prevent violent crime are fairly slim. This is where community support is so important. If you have expertise in a particular field then why not offer help. Perhaps you are an electrician. Fixing an outside light may be enough to deter a criminal.

Tags: Crimes against Business, Workplace Security
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Violence In The Work Place – Protecting Staff and Customers

July 15th, 2010

WORK PLACE VIOLENCE – PROTECTION PLANNING

Thankfully in the UK the number of serious incidents of work place violence is still not at the same level of intensity or frequency as the US. That is not to say incidents don’t occur. They do not have to be classified as major events worthy of top billing on the news to have an impact on your business.

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Compaies that have experienced workplace violence report decreased productivity, loss of good employees due to resignations, low morale and a general athmosphere of unhappiness. This is not good for any business and owners / managers should be constantly on the look out for warning signs.

Employees don’t just snap and lash out at colleagues or customers. There is normally a series of events that build up over time and come to a head through one “triggering” event. It might be something as simple as been refused overtime or a day’s leave. One seemingly trivial event can be the spark that sets in train a series of violent reactions.

When running a business there is so much to do that planning for a situation that may never arise can seem like a waste of effort. That is perfectly true but if you have staff they should be trained properly and this training should be ongoing and incorporate advice and guidance ob how to deal with violent incidents.

In the next series of posts we will discuss the warning signs to watch for as well as procedures that can be put in place to deal with incidents that may occur. In all the posts we will be emphasising the importance of taking proactive steps. By thinking ahead and planning many issues can be nipped in the bud before they become major incidents.

If you are thinking of installing security cameras in your business then certainly violent crime is one scenario you should consider especially if members of the public have regular access to your premises.

Tags: Workplace Security
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