IRVINE, Calif. — Security provider Allied Universal is offering holiday shopping safety tips for consumers, as well as insights on retailer security strategies to keep things merry and bright during the holiday shopping season.
Staying vigilante isn’t just good advice for shoppers, according to the Allied Universal 2025 World Security Report, which finds that retailers are investing or planning to invest more in artificial intelligence-based surveillance technology and upskilling and training of security teams to help keep shoppers safe.
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From biometric access control to AI-powered video surveillance and threat detection, retail organizations “are planning to ramp up security efforts to help protect against theft and bad actors,” the company announcement says.
“While retailers are prioritizing a strong security infrastructure, shoppers can do their part for a safe and enjoyable holiday shopping experience,” according to the announcement. “Allied Universal has put together a list of top 10 shopping safety tips to help keep criminals from dampening holiday spirits.”
Top 10 Holiday Shopping Safety Tips
- Maintain Situational Awareness: Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Shop During Off-Peak Hours: Shop during the day or at less popular times. If you must shop at night or during busy periods, do so with trusted friends or family.
- Avoid Fatigue: Tiredness can make you more vulnerable to threats and hazards.
- Choose Secure Shopping Locations: Shop at retail locations with a visible security presence.
- Know What to Do in an Emergency: Be aware of the locations of exits, fire alarms, and potential hiding places like bathrooms and fitting rooms.
- Protect Your Personal Information, Wallet and Credit Cards: Safeguard your wallet and credit card details, particularly when in line, to prevent identity theft and fraud.
- Manage Your Purchases: Consider the volume of your purchases and plan how to transport them home safely.
- Practice Parking Lot Safety: Park in a well-lit area and lock your vehicle. Allow extra time and be patient in crowded parking lots.
- Secure Your Valuables: Do not leave valuables or purchased merchandise visible inside your vehicle.
- Appropriately Respond to Danger: If you are in an unsafe situation, attempt to leave as quickly and safely as possible. If escape is not an option, find a secure place to hide. If neither is possible, prepare to defend yourself.
What Does the World Security Report Say About Holiday Shopping Safety?
- 51% of U.S. survey respondents say enhancing security for customers and reducing security risks such as physical, cyber and insider threats, are driving factors for adoption of advanced security technologies.
- 49% say adoption of advanced video, AI-powered video surveillance and AI-threat detection are crucial security technologies for the industry over the next two years.
This article was originally published by CS sister publication Security Sales & Integration and has been edited.
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