A security expert witness viewpoint on basic security measures: Security cameras can help deter criminals, but security guards may be better, says William J. Birks, Jr., CPP, a security expert witness and consultant in West Chester, Pennsylvania. He cautions that forgoing security staff to save money can backfire. “This creates a security vulnerability for the store,” says Birks. “What they think they save in manpower, they lose in inventory. Properly trained security officers can be one of your best and least costly deterrents to shoplifting loss.”

Take Care When Hiring Seasonal Employees

Many business owners overlook “insider threats” – the potential risks posed by their own employees, experts say. This is especially important during the holidays, when businesses often hire seasonal staff to handle increased traffic and extended hours. Birks says seasonal employees “may not have the same loyalty that your full-time employees tend to exhibit.” After all, they know they won’t be working there in two months.

Conduct thorough background checks when hiring seasonal staff, and remind your year-round employees to alert management if they notice anything amiss, Birks says.