How to Strengthen Your Store’s Security
According to the National Retail Federation, American retailers accrue an average loss of 50 billion dollars due to crime every year. That means that for every 1 billion dollars in sales, retail stores lose $777,877. Whether these losses are the result of fraud, shoplifting, or employee theft, they have a negative impact on profits as well as the peace of mind of both customers and employees. However, there are measures you can take to strengthen your store’s security. Here are a few tips from Coggin’s experts on commercial security in North Myrtle Beach.
Enhanced Commercial Security Systems
Theft in retail stores is a significant problem that can come in many different forms, from physical theft to cyber breaches. That being said, it’s important that your commercial security plan protects your store from all angles. If you are thinking about switching or upgrading your commercial security system, we recommend choosing a comprehensive solution that includes these aspects.
Install Commercial Security Cameras
One of the best ways to protect your store is with a video surveillance system that can help you keep an eye on your store. According to PriceGun, shoplifting is the number one property crime in the United States but only 1 out of 48 shoplifters are typically caught. Having commercial security cameras only will help deter potential theft in the future, but also ensure that you have footage should the worst happen. Not to mention, video surveillance systems allow store owners to monitor their assets and make sure that everyone is running smoothly even when they can’t be there.
If you opt to install commercial security cameras around your store, pay special attention to locations such as inventory rooms, entryways and exits, and the store’s exterior. This will allow you to get a good view of all the activities happening inside and outside of the store. Installing a camera at your registration will also give you a glimpse into the checkout process, where you can ensure all items are being paid for and/or returned properly. However, each store is different, and commercial security camera installation is best left to a trained professional who can ensure full visibility of the store with locations you might not have thought of.
Install a Monitored Alarm System
To ensure your store is protected after hours, we recommend that you install an alarm system that has 24/7 monitoring technology and rapid emergency response. Oftentimes, criminals can be in and out of a store within a matter of minutes, so time is of the essence when stopping the crime from occurring. A monitored commercial security system has motion sensors that detect every time a window or door is opened or broken. Whenever a detector is activated, you can have peace of mind knowing that both you and the authorities will be alerted immediately.
Install a Panic Button System
With so many opportunities for theft to occur, retail stores can enhance their protection measures with a panic alarm button. During an emergency, this device immediately alerts a list of designated contacts, including the appropriate authorities, for rapid response times. Panic button systems can be customized to share your real-time GPS, call certain contacts, and send a mass message to others.
These systems allow employees to discreetly call for help without worsening an already dangerous situation. Most panic button systems are also designed with features such as a two-button push requirement to prevent false alarms. With technology constantly improving, panic buttons now have wireless options that provide the coverage you can trust should the worst happen. All of Coggin Security, Inc.’s duress buttons can be easily integrated into your existing commercial security system.
Install Access Control Systems
As experts on commercial security in North Myrtle Beach, we know that an access control system is an essential part of effective commercial security, as it allows you to track exactly who is entering and exiting certain areas of the store, such as rooms containing a safe or any excess stock. Having a record of this information allows you to know exactly who was present when inventory was found missing or if theft occurs. There are several types of access control systems, however, typical solutions include the use of assigned codes, keycards, or biometric scanning before granting access to a certain area.
All logged information is stored using secure cloud-based software that can be accessed by you at any time. With commercial security technologies constantly evolving, Coggin Security, Inc. provides you with only the latest in cloud-based software for your access control system. Our commercial security experts work with you to determine which of our solutions is right for your business and your employees.
Strengthen Your Digital Network
It is important to make sure that you are protecting your business from cyber crimes just as much as you do in-person theft. Security technology has changed the way that many stores operate. With large amounts of business and custom data now being recorded in cloud systems and on point-of-sale systems that are used for day-to-day operations, cybersecurity is especially important. To ensure this information safe, make sure all of the systems in your store are password-protected with multi-factor authentication and sensitive data encryption.
Update all software as quickly as possible to prevent hackers from accessing sensitive information due to a bug or glitch. Ensure all passwords are unique for each type of website or system. Anti-virus software can also be used to help you sift through malicious threats to your online holdings. Ensuring that your company and consumers are protected from a data breach can provide the security you need to feel safe operating in the technological environment.
Keeping your business, assets, data, and employees safe can be a full-time job. Leave it to the commercial security professionals at Coggin Security, Inc. to get the peace of mind you deserve. Our experts provide you with industry-leading customer service, commercial sound systems, and comprehensive commercial security solutions tailored to meet your needs. Contact Coggin Security for a free consultation about commercial security in North Myrtle Beach today.