As Shoplifting Rises, Thieves Go High-Tech
As we've heard over the last couple of months, the recession has triggered a wave of crime and immorality. Today's Times confirms that shoplifting is on the rise, too, as people "are taking everything from compact discs and baby formula to gift cards and designer clothing." (The authorities say shoplifting is up 10 to 20 percent this year compared to last.) But the biggest criminal threat to retailers doesn't seem to be tragic individuals like the 25-year-old father of two who, after losing a job in a factory and then a job at McDonalds, tried to steal a $4.99 bottle of sleeping pills and is now awaiting trial. It's computers.
One website that sells fake receipts promises "no-questions-asked service," although the owner insists the receipts are "for novelty use only," like giving "prank gifts." And last month a man in Ohio was found guilty of running a shoplifting ring by printing out fake bar codes to place on items in stores like Walmart, which could be bought for a fraction of their real price then resold on the internet. Consider this a possible career path if you've been laid off and you're struggling to pay the bills: Not only will you save on your purchases and potentially build a successful (albeit illegal) business on the side, you'll be developing your high-tech computer skills, too, which should come in handy when the economy turns around and you can start looking for a real job again.
