INTERNAL LOSS: TOOLS AND INDICATORS

The prevention of internal theft is everyone’s responsibility. The first step in prevention is being aware an issue may exist. You can help by observing and reporting potential signs of dishonesty.

Potential internal theft indicators:

• Frequent register or safe/deposit shortages

• Guests frequently asking for one particular associate

• Excessive voids, returns or other non-sale transactions

• Empty packaging or tickets in the back room

• Associates who wear or use, but never purchase merchandise

While it may not be possible to completely prevent associates from creating loss, there are controls in place to help identify and deter internal theft.

Tools to identify internal theft:

• Operational audits used to measure adherence to policies and procedures

• Exception-based reporting on register transactions

• Cameras to monitor store activity

• Mystery shops to evaluate store operations and guest service

• Anonymous Hotline to report concerns

• Loss Investigations

We can prevent most external theft through attentive guest service, being knowledgeable of methods dishonest guests use, and by staying alert to potential dishonest behavior.

The most common form of external theft is shoplifting. While there are no physical characteristics to identify a potential shoplifter, there are behavioral clues that may indicate a guest attempting theft in your store.

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