Shopping malls are great places to spend a relaxing day with family and friends, but they are also a magnet for criminals. Places like these have many unique security challenges due to their large size, high volume of foot traffic, and diverse collection of retail stores. Criminals tend to see shopping malls as targets because they attract large numbers of customers at any given time. To protect yourself from these threats, it’s important to be aware of the most common ones.
Related: 5 Tips to Increase Security in Shopping Malls
1. Shoplifting
Shoplifting is a crime that both adults and children can commit. Shoppers should know that theft is one of the most common security threats in shopping malls. As a security guard, there are specific ways you can prevent shoplifting from occurring while you do your job.
Here are some helpful tips to prevent shoplifting:
- Remain aware of what’s happening around you.
- Check for any suspicious behavior.
- Keep an eye out for suspicious behavior.
Related: 5 Reasons Why Your Retail Business Needs a Security Guard
2. Vandalism
Vandalism is the willful destruction or defacement of public or private property. It can also be classified into two categories:
- Intentional vandalism – criminals who commit acts that damage property, such as breaking down doors and windows to enter a building.
- Random vandalism – things like fire, weather, or accidents that cause damage to property (like accidentally knocking over a rack in your store).
The best way to prevent vandalism at your shopping mall is by having security guards set in place. Make sure they’re well-trained on what to look out for when it comes to intentional and accidental acts of vandalism. It’s essential to find people with experience in this field of work. Don’t just hire anyone!
3. Terrorism
Terrorism is a significant threat to shopping malls. The most common type of terrorist attack in a shopping mall is a bomb explosion, which can be carried out by someone entering the mall or someone who has already been inside. It’s essential for every security guard to conduct a proper bag inspection before customers can enter the mall. If you see anyone in your area carrying an explosive device and/or making suspicious movements, immediately contact law enforcement.
If you cannot prevent an attack because it happened too quickly or unexpectedly (especially if there are many casualties), try to help those around you who were injured as much as possible before medical staff arrives on the scene. Always call 117 if necessary!
7. Mishandling Child and Teenage Customers
While it may seem like a non-issue, child and teenage safety is one of shopping malls’ most critical security aspects. Not only can these young shoppers be easily distracted and more likely to be injured as a result, but they are also often less aware than adults when making safe choices.
The role of a security guard in keeping children and teenagers safe stems from two main ideas: firstly, they must ensure that an adult accompanies all children and teenagers; secondly, they must watch out for any suspicious activity where kids or teens might be involved. To help achieve these things effectively, you should immediately follow up on your observations with managers or other supervisors who can take appropriate action against any perpetrator(s).
As long as you’re following proper protocol for dealing with these groups, and are keeping an eye out for suspicious behavior both inside and outside of stores, then there’s no reason anyone should get hurt while shopping at your store.
As a shopping mall owner, you want to ensure the safety of your customers and that their personal information is protected. Keep up with the latest trends in retail theft prevention to protect yourself and other businesses around town.
Take some time to consider how you can improve your security measures while maintaining a friendly customer environment.
Contact us today if you need specialized security services, and we will gladly offer you the best of our services!