“Is the Fear of Shoplifting Overblown?

It’s an undeniable fact that shoplifting has become an increasingly popular crime in this day and age. With the global pandemic causing economic hardships for many individuals, there is an understandable fear that shoplifting will only continue to rise in prevalence. In an effort to counterbalance this fear, it is important to analyze the facts surrounding the issue of shoplifting. In doing so, an understanding of the current state of the crime can be achieved. A recent study conducted by the University of British Columbia’s School of Criminology confirmed that the rate of shoplifting has remained largely consistent across ten different countries. The findings of this study reveal that only a small minority – approximately 10 percent – of people surveyed reported committing some form of shoplifting during the past 12 months. In comparison to previous years, the rate of shoplifting appears to have not substantially increased. Following these results, it would then follow that fears of an imminent shoplifting surge should be dismissed. Even when considering the ongoing economic difficulties faced by many people, it seems that shoplifting has yet to reach a significant level. In order to address the issue of shoplifting, it is essential that policymakers understand the true facts and figures regarding the crime. While it is prudent to remain aware of the risk of shoplifting, it seems that the fear of an imminent surge is not in line with current evidence. To conclude, it is clear that shoplifting is still a problem that needs to be kept in check. However, it is the responsibility of policymakers to ensure that their decisions are based on data rather than fear. An accurate understanding of the facts of shoplifting is necessary to make any meaningful progress in the prevention of this crime.