How Does Video Surveillance Work?
Our first option involves the use of deterrents such as security guards, observation mirrors (that allow store clerks to see throughout the store) and closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance systems. Most large stores use some combination of these techniques, which were among the earliest tools used to combat shoplifting. Smaller businesses, unable to afford security guards, were able to install video cameras — usually in a prominent place so that shoppers knew they were being watched — to record activity in the store. Later, the retailer could review the tapes on a VCR, observe shoppers behaving suspiciously (sometimes even stealing) and note the vulnerable displays or areas in the store. However, in the real world most of the shop owners work long hours and do not have time to review the records after a whole day’s hard working, because this simply means double the working hours. Even the shop owners can review their records, the problem with this record-and-review system is
