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Steps To Cut Employee Theft

NCJ Number
110048
Journal
Security Volume: 25 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1988) Pages: 58-61
Author(s)
L Gaines
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
A survey of security decisionmakers across the United States found that more than 75 percent believe that employee theft is somewhat serious or very serious for their companies.
Abstract
Security decisionmakers report theft of cash and merchandise and abuse of the telephone and time as among the most serious forms of employee theft. Use of preemployment screening, such as indepth interviews; paper and pencil honesty tests; and background investigations is one of the top five suggestions respondents give for preventing employee theft. Another suggestion is to improve employee attitudes and loyalty by communicating company policies and values, treating employees with respect, and promoting job satisfaction. A further approach is to appeal to employees directly through a security awareness program. Some companies also have anonymous reporting procedures, sometimes coupled with rewards, for turning in dishonest coworkers. Regardless of the method chose, action saves money. The average dollar loss for survey respondents was more than $45,000 in the last 12 months. Figures and list of prevention suggestions.