Why Do Criminals Target Businesses?
Theft, vandalism, robberies, shoplifting and other crimes cost businesses across the country millions of dollars each year. Not only does crime result in stolen assets and damaged property, but it also disrupts to day-to-day operations, making it more difficult to run a business.
Therefore, it’s important to take steps to not only secure your property, but to make it less of a target for criminals. What makes a property a target? Here are a few things criminals look for when they are contemplating a crime:
Poor Lighting
Criminals do not want to be seen. If they can find a property that is poorly lit, there are much more likely to attempt a crime. Not only does poor lighting make it much less likely that they’ll be caught in the act, but inadequate lighting also makes many video surveillance cameras much less effective.
Property Damage and Neglect
Not only does a lack of lighting make your property a target, but neglected lighting fixtures and other signs of neglect and damage also tempt criminals. Why? If criminals see that a location has burned out light bulbs, damaged windows, and visible vandalism, they believe that the property owner doesn’t take much care of the property. They then assume there is a good chance that proper security is also not a priority.
Tempting Displays
The same thing that entices customers to shop at your store also tempts criminals to rob you. If a criminal can see valuables through store windows or office windows, they will be more likely to attempt a crime. They’d much rather take the risk if they are certain to find a reward inside.
Places to Hide
As mentioned earlier, criminals do not want to be seen committing their crimes. If there are locations on your property where they can hide, they will take advantage. For example, if a criminal can hide behind a planter or a large sign and scout out your location, he or she will do so. If there is an alley where a criminal can wait for an opportunity without being noticed, they will certainly do so.
Opportunity
Many crimes are crimes of opportunity. This is especially true with business crimes and retail store crimes. Criminals may not have their mind set on a particular target at first. Instead, they will often notice a location that appears unprotected or under-protected, and then decide to strike. For example, a shoplifter might only slip an item or two into their bag when they notice that store staff isn’t paying attention or when they find a display case where they can hide and steal without being noticed.
What You Can Do
It’s important to look at your property critically. If you were a criminal, what weaknesses would you find at your location? Remember, criminals do not care about entering a business politely. They will smash through windows and break down doors if needed. That’s why it’s important to let criminals know that your business is secure.
Install proper lighting, conduct regular maintenance at your property, remove hiding places and tempting displays, and use physical security gates to let criminals know that you’re serious about crime prevention.
Want some more helpful tips to improving the security of your business? Download our helpful guide to Improving Your Security Mindset.
