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Bender

01-16-2009, 05:58 PM

[Last Update November 29th 2009

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PM ME

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Research for theft prevention products.
http://www.americantheftprevention.com/Sensormatic-Tags-Labels-c27/

Some basics on how Shoplifters are monitored and caught.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoplifting

Sensormatic hooks are available by a very reputable user here.
Email below.
vinipooh123@gmail.com!

Super strong magnets!
http://www.magnet4less.com

Useful Tip's

1) Hold the item in your hand. Drop something (cell phone) on the ground. Pick it up using that hand and put both items into your bag.

2) With stores that ask how many items you bring in~ Hide multiple pieces of clothing in your pile. Make it sound believable. Most won't bother checking your pile anyways. Once inside dressing room, hide your desired items. Come out with appropriate amount of clothes. dump on the unwanted pile or place clothing back on rack.

3) (mostly for girls) Have item desired in your hand or on the floor. Drop your purse's contents all over the floor. Quickly scramble to put back all items back into bag.

4) your bicycle with a friend (need pegs) to the store you want to steal from, and park your bike in front of a window that is visible from the registers. Tell your friend to hide. Then, politely ask an employee to watch your bike. They will most likely say yes, being kind. Go into the store, then get a basket, and fill it with the stuff you want to steal. After you have gotten what you want to steal (probably not more than 10 lbs) go to a register with a really long line. Call your friend on your cellphone, and tell him "its time". He will then get on the bike, and after hes on yell "THAT KIDS STEALING MY BIKE!" and run after him with your basket in hand. Most people will be too confused and shocked to chase you. Yes, the alarm will go off. Meet your friend at another store, the security guards from the store you stole from cant grab you off grounds, but they probably wont find you.

5) Lift perfume bottles from the stand, take it away as if you're smelling it and put it in your bag when you get away. Looks kinda stupid but you can play dumb and pretend you wanted to buy it at the cashier's.

6) Switcharoo~ Mentioned this before I think. At stores that count clothing when you go in/out, put on the item and put your old clothing on the hanger. At first glance they may not notice.

7) If you thinking someone is watching you or following you around (and they suspect you) DUMP OUT MERCHANDISE. They cannot prosecute you until they see you pass the register without making an attempt to pay and leave the store. Doesn't matter if they see you if they already know what you're up to.
Quickly leave the store. If they attempt to search you, they would find nothing. Most stores are only interested in recovering lost merchandise.
guards can stop you outside the store but not outside the property.
Try and get lost inside a crowd once outside.

8) Running a magnet over the metal strip a number of times will deactivate it I think..

9) Wear a thick sweatshirt that is fairly tight or fitted at the bottom. Zip this up halfway and walk around the store. Use this as a giant pocket, just insert the items into the gap between your shirt and your body.

10) If you're trying to grab some small items on a tray or near the rack, 'accidentally' knock it all over. As you're scrambling to pick it up (because you DID knock it over), quickly pocket some items by shoving it up your sleeve.

11) Work in pairs. One person acts as an interested customer. Person 2 grabs some small item. Person conveniently has open bag on arm or shoulder. P 2 slips stuff into their tote as they walk by.

12) A person alone pretends to browse the displays, and at the right moment, easily brushes items displayed near the table-edge right into an open bag, purse, or baggy pocket that's just below the table level.

13) A person sets a personal item on your table while pretending to shop. When the person picks up her personal item, she neatly lifts some of your jewelry along with it.

14) Use umbrellas to lift smaller things from shelves. Keep it closed but unsnapped.

15) Bags insulated with aluminum foil AKA Magic Bags block out the magnetic strip that causes the alarm to go off. To test your bag, place your cell phone in one and call it. If it doesn't ring your good to go.

16) Walking into a store, and not making a purchase raises suspicion especially among younger people. If you go into a store and lift, make a small purchase just to make yourself look like you intended to buy something. So lift your 40 dollar headphones, and buy that 1.25 candy ;)

EllisD

01-16-2009, 10:00 PM

I just got a great idea, might sound gay to most.
if you want to go steal shit and know you can get away while still getting caught on camera.
Dress up as a transphestite :) or however u spell it
make up and all :) high heels if u want.
basically like puttin panty hoes on your head...except u could be wearing them now...
identity saved :)

"EllisD,no not like the drug, I dont sell drugs, I only do them"

xxombie

01-16-2009, 10:42 PM

*inhales deeply*
Mmm, this takes me back.

First of all, know that in many stores, the staff are instructed to ignore shoplifters. Probably because they don't have the insurance to cover any damages that the crazy shoplifter could cause. They could have a weapon for example. I find lots of clothing stores are like this, generic teen stores like La Senza, Bluenotes, Stitches etc... places that hire young women as staff. What they CAN do though, is alert mall security (or potentially the police) the minute you leave the store.

So this isn't something to rely on, but it's hilariously easy going into these places and getting free shit. Shoppers drug mart I believe is the same way.

Also, in a lot of places (Shoppers for example) the door alarm only works for items over twenty dollars. So you're safe.

Just some tips that make you a lot more confident when on the prowl.

Bender

01-16-2009, 11:05 PM

Natural Cure

01-17-2009, 10:01 AM

Another good way to get free cds/games/movies at places like bestbuy is to grab the items you want, make sure there isn't a security device that prevents you from opening it and head into the bathroom. Remove the stickers without ripping the sticker if you can, take the cd out of the case and seal the sticker back on, place the case where you got it.

BiggLJ

01-17-2009, 10:09 PM

RULE 8 : Many times if someone sees you trying to shoplift, they
will start following you around. Calmly place the stuff
back on the shelf, any shelf! They really can't get you
as long as you haven't walked by a register, and start
walking out the door, because until you start walking out
the door, you still could have intent to pay, and if they
do pick you up for shoplifting before you walk out the door,
your case most likely will not hold up in court. Many
lawyers have freed many shoplifters because of that. If
they pick you up. Start telling them you haven't had a
chance to pay, and that they can not pick you up for
shoplifting, until you have a chance to pay, or walk out
the door! Just act like you know what you are talking about

It's important to remember that in some states, concealment is considered a crime. Usually store policy is to wait til you're out, but that doesn't mean you CAN'T get in shit for concealing while you're in the store. Courts aren't stupid, if you're on cam cutting stuff out of its package and putting it in your pocket looking sketch as fuck, they may say that shows you had intent to steal. Even if you do get a good lawyer and beat the case, you'll still have wasted a lot of time and money. So be careful and don't conceal if a mutha fucker's looking, ya dig?

Irukanji

01-19-2009, 07:51 AM

Small little blades are good for lifting. Just cut the packaging open and stick behind other merchandise. Theres an article on how to make one from a roofing blade thing somewhere...

sexualjesus

01-19-2009, 09:26 AM

when i was going through qld i used a pair of scissors that you use to cut your nails, was hard to use but you wont loose it like you loose a blade and you cant get arrested for it like a knife, greatest tool ever.

sinesthesia

01-19-2009, 03:15 PM

A while ago I heard a friend tell me this scam for free (or) 2-for-1 liquor, though you could probably use this sleight of hand technique for any product given that all the parameters are alike. For the purpose of this lift, I'll stick to the story of liquor.

An individual goes to a liquor store that doesn't have those security alarms. Strangely enough, I've noticed there are tons of them in my city (90% probably). Next, said individual wears a coat that has fairly large front pockets. Walk up to the section where the mickey's are kept, obviously they cannot be kept behind the counter. When individual goes to grab a mickey, he pretends as if he's only grabbing one, but instead extends his hand further out and grabs two (one in front of the other). He then holds it down in front of him, and acts as if he's checking out the product.

Before turning around to pay for, what seems like, a single mickey, he slides the second mickey into one of his front pockets (Large winter leather jackets with no flap or closed zippers would be ideal). If done properly, it should be a smooth motion while turning around to pay for the mickey.

Even if the clerk is watching you, this lift is hard to notice as your body conceals the swipe the entire time. From his point of view, he sees you grabbing a mickey, looking at it, then turning around to pay for it. Unless you look like a dirtbag, there will be no reason to be suspicious. Given the right store setup, and smoothness of the lift's execution, this is even hard to spot on camera directly on you -- especially if there are other customers in the store.

It's also been said that you can use a toothpick to "prop open" the pocket, so the mickey will literally drop right into it in the blink of an eye. The mickey knocks the toothpick down into the pocket with it as it falls, and the pocket closes naturally.

I imagine if you don't want to pay for anything, you could just pretend to put the single mickey back on the shelf, though you'd have to come up with a reason why you entered the store and left without buying anything.

Or you could pretend to get an important phone call as you're headed to the counter, walk up to the clerk, put the mickey down and say, can I leave this here? I'll be right back.

I haven't seen this done time and time again -- flawlessly, and is purely hypothetical.

FURAK

01-19-2009, 10:20 PM

stealing isn't cool man

Yeah I really hope you're being sarcastic. Not trying to say stealing is "uber cool and hardcore" but moralfags have no place in the new BI.

I guess I'll contribute a guide on stealing cds from FYE and my experience with mall security

FYE's security devices are magnetic strips (That's what they're called right?). Erm they're those long white rectangles that have a barcode-looking thing on them.

Theres 4 types of cds in there

1. ones with the strip on the outside (easiest to steal)

2. ones where you will see the strip when you open the cd case (probably on the left side)

3. ones with the strip hiding under the cd and behind the plastic thing where the cd rests.

4. ones with no magnetic strip at all.

there might also be a tag hiding within the little booklet that comes with most cds but i personally have -never- seen this.

So yeah with the first type just take off the strip, pocket cd in blindspot, and put the strip somewhere else. I personally pretend to browse other cds and put the strip on the back of one of them. the bad thing about this is someone stealing it might get busted because there was a tag on the inside AND the outside.

I... don't recommend stealing the kind that don't have the thing on the outside but the way I did it was puting it in my purse, setting it where the posters are, and pretending to go through my purse while actually cutting off the wrapper, opening the case, and looking for security tags. Thats... a very bad idea though...

Idk about your FYE but mine also has plenty of space around the sensors. You can just walk around them if you're not sure if you'll set the alarm off.

---

Ok so one time I got caught at spencers. My friend came up and said "the cashregister lady wants to know if you stole anything" So I told her "tell her I said no" and proceded to gtfo of there (I had stolen about 40-50$ worth of stuff). At first I was just going to shop around like normal but one of my friends that was still at the store said they were calling security so I went and left the mall. They were slow as fuck though, I was wandering around macys quite a bit trying to find an exit before I just went out the regular one near the food court. So I was walkin away and my friend was tellin me on his cellphone that his friend saw a cop car, little bit later i heard sirens. They never caught me, but my parents did because they were grilling my friend about where I was and she finally gave in and told them about it.

There was another time at a different mall where me and my friend had stolen some stuff and my friend said a security guy was staring at us. We just left after that (we were going to leave anyways)

@@@

01-19-2009, 11:24 PM

Here's Jesusnachos' tutorial for making an S3 handkey:
http://s156.photobucket.com/albums/t33/jesusnachos/

.it

01-20-2009, 12:41 AM

someone needs to post the dimensions of a senormatic hook

Xabraxius

01-20-2009, 03:53 AM

Something I am amazed that none of you have discovered for opening packages is the hypothetical and purely theoretical usage of a razor blade.
Simply break open a cheap new plastic razor, the place where the blade or blades are housed, it prys away quite easily.

Wrap half the blade in scotch tape for a handle, or simpley be careful, if necessary you can attach it to an old gift card (Oh, the irony) to give it extra weight and cutting force.

This tool works perfectly for cutting everything; wrappers, boxes, and even the heavier plastic packages (if you do it right) with startling efficiency and grace. Most people will not hear a thing, and if you get caught, you can easily get rid of the razor.

Ofcourse I have only heard of this in whispers in back alleys and read of it in the shadowiest of texts, I in no way have developed and or practiced it. Ever, seriously :p mehbeh

GermanyOrFlorida

01-20-2009, 02:08 PM

someone needs to post the dimensions of a senormatic hook

shazam!
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn312/methodmike44/7084766-0-large.jpg

Thanks to orinux for the original post of this cutaway

MartialShot

01-20-2009, 02:20 PM

Buku

01-20-2009, 05:56 PM

Hey guys, I have a new dream of shoplifting a Nintendo DS(I don't know why, I just want to do it) and some games. Help me plan it out. What store would be the best to steal from, what equipment would I need, just a general plan if you've done this. I'd also like to steal a laptop sometime in the future. Gimme ideas if you'd be so kind.

nostrumfiend

01-20-2009, 07:10 PM

Dye Tags And Their Removal

Yeh those bastards put dye tags on everything and God damn they are annoying. Well the secret is.....THERE MAGNETIC! Yeh thats right the stupid ones on big things and clothes are all magnetic

Basically its a magnetic clamp that holds the pin in place and if you pull too hard....well I'll let you find out for yourself.

As for getting them off, just a small earth magnetic on either side of the pin and that stupid thing should pop right off. We used to use a semicircle removal tool that was a perfect magnet for opening the pin.

Which pole goes on which side?
S Tag S
N Tag N
S Tag N
N tag S

Also, I have heard about this working.
http://www.acehardware.com/sm-general-tools-professional-magnetizer-demagnetizer-general-tools-professional-magnetizer-demagnetizer--pi-1297750.html

What do you all think?

Nisko

01-20-2009, 08:09 PM

@@@

01-21-2009, 02:47 AM

Reptar

01-21-2009, 03:30 AM

Lifting from 7-11, easy, hard?

GermanyOrFlorida

01-21-2009, 04:10 AM

Lifting from 7-11, easy, hard?

Super duper easy to get away, especially late at night.
Except make sure to conceal your face really well. In one seven eleven, there's like 20 cameras(not an exageration)

Reptar

01-21-2009, 05:03 AM

Super duper easy to get away, especially late at night.
Except make sure to conceal your face really well. In one seven eleven, there's like 20 cameras(not an exageration)

Well, how many cameras you figure are real? SWIM has gone in there a couple of times, but gets nervous and takes little things. Does anybody even watch the cameras, or are they mostly there to scare.

BiggLJ

01-21-2009, 05:16 AM

Why lift from a 7-11 when grocery stores are much easier targets and have all the same stuff?

Reptar

01-21-2009, 05:19 AM

Why lift from a 7-11 when grocery stores are much easier targets and have all the same stuff?

We have one grocery here, and it's super easy, been in there way to much lately tho.

fishmonger

01-22-2009, 06:35 AM

Lets talk about serial numbers

I had asked on other sites before and never got an answer.

How well do retail stores track their serial numbers?
Many items have serial numbers but they are NOT recorded at the point of sale.

So my question is, if you are selling something that is stolen, and there was a case being built against you, how realistic would it be that a retailer would be able to determine if a serial number is stolen if it was NOT recorded at the point of sale?

BiggLJ

01-22-2009, 08:23 AM

So my question is, if you are selling something that is stolen, and there was a case being built against you, how realistic would it be that a retailer would be able to determine if a serial number is stolen if it was NOT recorded at the point of sale?

It's very unlikely. No one builds shoplifting cases anyway. You either get caught at the store, or by them having proof and getting your license plate. If you're really worried just give it a couple weeks between stealing the stuff and selling it.

Hyper-dimension

01-22-2009, 08:48 AM

It's very unlikely. No one builds shoplifting cases anyway. You either get caught at the store, or by them having proof and getting your license plate. If you're really worried just give it a couple weeks between stealing the stuff and selling it.

Seconded. If the serial number for a particular item you have is not recorded at the POS, than there is no case. I think your only real concern would be trying to pawn the item. If you sell on Ebay to someone in another state, you're chances of getting in trouble are zero. Unless, of course, we're talking about an ultra expensive item.

VINNIPOOH

01-22-2009, 07:56 PM

hello, this is vinipooh, a respected bad ideas member from totses, banned several times, full of bad ideas, bad ass.

nostrumfiend

01-22-2009, 10:47 PM

hello, this is vinipooh, a respected bad ideas member from totses, banned several times, full of bad ideas, bad ass.

I just read every post in the rorta shoplifting tips and tricks thread over the span of a week. Saw a lot of your posts and remember you from BI. I look forward to your informative posts.

Hyper-dimension

01-23-2009, 01:05 AM

fishmonger

01-23-2009, 01:07 AM

Seconded. If the serial number for a particular item you have is not recorded at the POS, than there is no case. I think your only real concern would be trying to pawn the item. If you sell on Ebay to someone in another state, you're chances of getting in trouble are zero. Unless, of course, we're talking about an ultra expensive item.

I figured this was the case. I was just concerned if somone bought it from me then tried to register the serial # for a warranty or something like that.

DrPepper

01-23-2009, 08:39 PM

Okay, I started a thread on this topic and it was removed(or lost?) for some reason.

Has anyone tried receiptless returns with fake I.D.'s?

I figure they couldn't possibly know a well-made fake is in fact, fake, without having access to the DMV's database(I.D. number look-up). I don't think this would be likely, considering the fact that asking for your I.D. during these transactions isn't sanctioned by the DMV in the first place.

The reason for wanting to do this, of course, is that stores track receiptless returns, limiting how much store credit you can aquire in a certain time span.

Any thoughts or insight?

Well, it really really depends on the store. most stores won't 'swipe' the i.d. they'll take it, look at it, and copy the address into their system. the address is really all they take. as long as it looks real, then it should work out. i've done this in clothing retail stores, electronic stores, and home depot.

Rush2Lush

01-24-2009, 12:18 AM

Well, it really really depends on the store. most stores won't 'swipe' the i.d. they'll take it, look at it, and copy the address into their system. the address is really all they take. as long as it looks real, then it should work out. i've done this in clothing retail stores, electronic stores, and home depot.
Without a receipt what is the maximum amount of store credit you can get in one go? For example: I go into a department store with no receipt but two winter jackets and an ID. Will they give me upwards of 400 dollars in store credit?

Leshrac

01-24-2009, 01:25 AM

Barcoding, fools !

DrPepper

01-24-2009, 02:23 PM

Without a receipt what is the maximum amount of store credit you can get in one go? For example: I go into a department store with no receipt but two winter jackets and an ID. Will they give me upwards of 400 dollars in store credit?

if it's a single item they will give u the credit back no matter the cost. if you try to return multiple items, there will be a limit of about 200, depending on the store. i'd suggest you return them at 2 different stores or do it in 2 days. when i don't have i.d's (or don't wanna use mine) i make my friends return for me... plus, you wouldn't want them to remember you if you do returns often.

McSpanky

01-25-2009, 12:39 AM

Does Staples have any cameras? I was there today and did a quick scan of the horizon and didn't see any. Normally stores go out of their way to make sure customers notice them.

Broke

01-25-2009, 07:11 AM

Dye Tags And Their Removal

Yeh those bastards put dye tags on everything and God damn they are annoying. Well the secret is.....THERE MAGNETIC! Yeh thats right the stupid ones on big things and clothes are all magnetic

Basically its a magnetic clamp that holds the pin in place and if you pull too hard....well I'll let you find out for yourself.

As for getting them off, just a small earth magnetic on either side of the pin and that stupid thing should pop right off. We used to use a semicircle removal tool that was a perfect magnet for opening the pin.

you sir are an idiot. There is no fucking magnetic clamp. there is a spring that pushes on the cup with the ball bearings which keep the pin latched.
the only true part about your statement is it can be opened with a magnet.. watch my vid on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7SQdzTJkEE

clearly you have never taken apart an ink tag

this is why i want to make a video on the five finger discount so bullshit like this doesnt get spread around

Jim Strongcock

01-25-2009, 11:06 PM

one more thing: only take what you came for. the less time your in there the better

Dark Destroyer

01-25-2009, 11:27 PM

I want to make a movie on the Five Finger Discount if you are interested in the project please visit the profile page i made:

http://www.myspace.com/fivefingerdiscountproject

your gonna fuck the entire &Z population.
but the vid was very very good.
thanks.

also heres a good place to get Neo-whatever magnets cheap
like 100 or so for 13 bucks

http://www.dealextreme.com/products.dx/category.1105

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 01:24 AM

Does anyone have any experience with this?

Do they have security tower checkpoints at the entrance/exit?

What is the camera situation?

Do they have LP?
Plainclothes?
Patrolling?

Do you have to show your membership card up entrance or only exit?
Even if you made no purchase?

I will scout this out for myself but I would like to know everything about it ahead of time because the nearest one is far from me.

@@@

01-27-2009, 01:34 AM

There's a shoplifting thread. Use it.

decayed

01-27-2009, 01:57 AM

SWIM steals shit all the time from the grocery store where SWIM works.

they have cameras but nobody ever checks them. They only have them to scare and i guess if your stupid enough to get caught they can prove it. also a note to add. if your stealing shit try to make it on the same day that your buying something to big/hard to steel if its pocket sized that is. It looks less sketchy if you buy something also if youact friendly.

totse

01-27-2009, 01:58 AM

There's a shoplifting thread. Use it.

Why? It'll just become a confusing clusterfuck.

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 02:04 AM

I'm trying to keep specific locations out of the general tips thread.

VINNIPOOH

01-27-2009, 02:53 AM

yep all costcos have fuckign LPs. usually 2 dudes and a lady. they have cemeras inside and outside. they bust people.

no towers or anything like that. they dont have any alarms of any kind.

totse

01-27-2009, 03:20 AM

I'm trying to keep specific locations out of the general tips thread.

This. Individual threads are easier to find for future reference.

Intuition707

01-27-2009, 03:38 AM

yea they have regular employees usually in plain clothes that walk around pretending like they are shopping. they have alarms on all emergency exits. you have to watch out cuz employees wear street clothes pretty much. if you want to get into costco without a membership tell them you are buying alcohol (you dont need a membership to buy alcohol) at least in Cali. although this might tip them off.
they do have cameras throughout the store. no security towers at the doors but there is always someone there checking reciepts.

totse

01-27-2009, 03:55 AM

FYI unlike other places you can't refuse to show your receipt at the exit at costco. It's one of the terms of membership.

Broke

01-27-2009, 03:58 AM

why dont you fund it with the shit you steal... your "movie" smells like :shit:

i dont want to fund it because i know as soon as i release it no one will pay for the dvd version and no one will donate for the effort i made, they will just pirate that shit and i will be where i am most of the time...broke waiting for my next paycheck

Reptar

01-27-2009, 05:07 AM

FYI unlike other places you can't refuse to show your receipt at the exit at costco. It's one of the terms of membership.

truth is this, it's kind of like superstore here

Reptar

01-27-2009, 05:25 AM

i dont want to fund it because i know as soon as i release it no one will pay for the dvd version and no one will donate for the effort i made, they will just pirate that shit and i will be where i am most of the time...broke waiting for my next paycheck

K that makes no fucking sense at all, why should we the people, donate for you to make your film, than pay for a fucking dvd, your ripping us off twice.

AND how the fuck are you going to release a dvd about shoplifting, and who the fuck is going to pay for it?

NeonMonkeys

01-27-2009, 05:46 AM

AND how the fuck are you going to release a dvd about shoplifting, and who the fuck is going to pay for it?

HAHAHAH WIN!!

fishmonger

01-27-2009, 11:17 AM

I remember on the totse shoplifting sticky that their LP use walkies so they are easy to hear coming.
But the main thing to remember employees pretty much wear street clothes on the dressy side, polo's, button downs, tucked in shirts.

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 11:19 AM

Would you have to show a receipt if you had a backpack on or something?

fishmonger

01-27-2009, 11:30 AM

If they had enough probable cause to try to stop you at the exit im sure they would try.

Wearing a backpack is just attracting unwanted attention though.

fishmonger

01-27-2009, 12:04 PM

quick question

Are transactions on a gift card tracked? If i get a gift card from barcoding could I Just continue using it? Or is it more like cash?

plutomic

01-27-2009, 12:58 PM

i dont want to fund it because i know as soon as i release it no one will pay for the dvd version and no one will donate for the effort i made, they will just pirate that shit and i will be where i am most of the time...broke waiting for my next paycheck

ohhh.. So that's how hollywood works now? If they don't have enough money they simply put up a donation box claiming "we don't wanna use our own money..you'll pirate it"... -__

If its that big of a hassle, don't fucking make a movie.

If you don't have money to pay for equipment, don't fucking make a movie.

If you expect people to pay 20 dollars for instructions on how to shoplift,don't make a movie.

Besides, why the FUCK do you need "a spy camera". Just use a regular camera...bitch

Broke

01-27-2009, 02:19 PM

ohhh.. So that's how hollywood works now? If they don't have enough money they simply put up a donation box claiming "we don't wanna use our own money..you'll pirate it"... -__

If its that big of a hassle, don't fucking make a movie.

If you don't have money to pay for equipment, don't fucking make a movie.

If you expect people to pay 20 dollars for instructions on how to shoplift,don't make a movie.

Besides, why the FUCK do you need "a spy camera". Just use a regular camera...bitch

no i'm saying if i pay for the camera, and release it online for free like intended and have a dvd format available for people who want a hard copy.

point i'm trying to make is i will end up paying for the camera, not getting any donations for the free online release, and not selling any dvds because its free online...so i will put myself in a $300 hole while the rest of the world profits.

and the spy camera is to show you live field work so ppl wont say "o he's just showing us in a staged setting it would never work in a real store"

but you know what fuck it, the world can burn and the world doesn't deserve to be educated

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 02:24 PM

no i'm saying if i pay for the camera, and release it online for free like intended and have a dvd format available for people who want a hard copy.

point i'm trying to make is i will end up paying for the camera, not getting any donations for the free online release, and not selling any dvds because its free online...so i will put myself in a $300 hole while the rest of the world profits.

and the spy camera is to show you live field work so ppl wont say "o he's just showing us in a staged setting it would never work in a real store"

but you know what fuck it, the world can burn and the world doesn't deserve to be educated

Noooooo! Please squirt your wisdom upon our faces. Fuck you gtfo :fap:

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 02:27 PM

That's true and I never wear one when racking. I'm just trying to think how to get something out of there. Any ideas?

Broke

01-27-2009, 07:55 PM

Noooooo! Please squirt your wisdom upon our faces. Fuck you gtfo :fap:

wish granted :o

@@@

01-27-2009, 08:34 PM

What do you want to steal?

try box stuffing.

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 09:20 PM

wish granted :o

the squirting part or the getting out part?

nostrumfiend

01-27-2009, 09:21 PM

What do you want to steal?

try box stuffing.

I'm not a member so that wouldn't work. I'm going to scout it out and see if being a member would be worth it.

plutomic

01-27-2009, 10:57 PM

no i'm saying if i pay for the camera, and release it online for free like intended and have a dvd format available for people who want a hard copy.

point i'm trying to make is i will end up paying for the camera, not getting any donations for the free online release, and not selling any dvds because its free online...so i will put myself in a $300 hole while the rest of the world profits.

and the spy camera is to show you live field work so ppl wont say "o he's just showing us in a staged setting it would never work in a real store"

but you know what fuck it, the world can burn and the world doesn't deserve to be educatedhonestly, it sounds like a good idea.. i would watch it just to see different techniques in action.

but, im not willing to donate money to see it.

Intuition707

01-27-2009, 11:03 PM

fishmonger

01-27-2009, 11:18 PM

Costco uses little to no cameras on the sales floor. It would be incredibly time consuming for them to backtrack on their cameras pointed at the registers looking for some one who MIGHT be box stuffing. It would most likely be attributed to employee shrink.

nostrumfiend

01-28-2009, 02:27 AM

box stuffing would not be smart. the computer keeps records of what you purchase...so obviously if you stuffed say a office chair box full off electronics they would find the office chair you took out look on camera and on computer to see who purchased the chair. with a membership they will have your name number adress ect..

best idea would be to book it out an emergency exit with an lcd and have someone waiting with a truck running.

In addition to what fishmonger says your post makes no sense. If the computer keeps records of what is PURCHASED then they will not know you have all of the things in the box because there is no RECORD because they were not PURCHASED.

AsianSurprize

01-28-2009, 04:11 AM

I don't know much about lifting from Costco however I was told that they have hidden cameras almost everywhere... and the LP are fucking crazy. There are a lot of workers and people at Costco as well which makes it hard. I've coded at Wal-Mart before, used to buy Planet Earth and other box sets for 10 dollars. It's pretty easy. I once coded a box of pop as tuna fish and got caught, but they just laughed because it was fucking funny. If you want to get a membership... I suggest getting a fake Costco card. I can make you one if you'd like all I'd need is a picture of yourself. It doesn't make sense to pay to shoplift... it pretty much defeats the purpose then.

fishmonger

01-28-2009, 05:56 AM

I will keep an eye out for the hidden cameras but I've seen some pretty stupid people get away with stuff from there.

I can definitely see barcoding being super easy there. Receipt scams as well.

fishmonger

01-28-2009, 10:23 AM

Reptar

01-28-2009, 05:15 PM

I was talking to my friend the other day and he got arrested for theft 1 for shoplifting at wal-mart. He had an S3 key on him.
He went into the bathroom on his way out and was basically watched by 3 guys while he urinated. When he was showing the greeter his receipt on the way out a guy that was in the bathroom with his came up behind him and said " I need the merch back " so he bolted for the door. He was tackled by 5 guys from all directions. They were waiting in the parking lot.
Doesn't this seem a little screwed up? They spied on him while he was in the bathroom, he never left the store (did get to the EAS towers) and they didnt ID themselves as LP.
Being banned for life sucks because it was his main money maker too.
Well if he was in there enough, people start to recognize, it sounded like he was taking expensive shit too.
He was probally in there everyday, and the lp decided they weren't gonna take that shit.
Face to pavement.

Rush2Lush

01-28-2009, 06:39 PM

Stealing from Costco is a BAD IDEA. The LPs will have you on the floor with their knees in your back before you reach the EAS towers.

BiggLJ

01-28-2009, 06:42 PM

I was talking to my friend the other day and he got arrested for theft 1 for shoplifting at wal-mart. He had an S3 key on him.
He went into the bathroom on his way out and was basically watched by 3 guys while he urinated. When he was showing the greeter his receipt on the way out a guy that was in the bathroom with his came up behind him and said " I need the merch back " so he bolted for the door. He was tackled by 5 guys from all directions. They were waiting in the parking lot.
Doesn't this seem a little screwed up? They spied on him while he was in the bathroom, he never left the store (did get to the EAS towers) and they didnt ID themselves as LP.
Being banned for life sucks because it was his main money maker too.

It's fucked up but there's not much your "friend" can do about it. LP are allowed to go in the bathroom if necessary, and getting to the towers means all points of sale have been passed. They may not have identified themselves as LP but since they said they need the merchandise back, you can't exactly make the case that you didn't know what was going on.

Walmart LP are assholes, I got tackled by a couple of them the 1 time I got caught (mine was theft 3 though). They love to play Rambo when they have numbers so unless you've gotta clear running lane it's best to just go quietly.

Buku

01-28-2009, 10:57 PM

I was talking to my friend the other day and he got arrested for theft 1 for shoplifting at wal-mart. He had an S3 key on him.
He went into the bathroom on his way out and was basically watched by 3 guys while he urinated. When he was showing the greeter his receipt on the way out a guy that was in the bathroom with his came up behind him and said " I need the merch back " so he bolted for the door. He was tackled by 5 guys from all directions. They were waiting in the parking lot.
Doesn't this seem a little screwed up? They spied on him while he was in the bathroom, he never left the store (did get to the EAS towers) and they didnt ID themselves as LP.
Being banned for life sucks because it was his main money maker too.

Oh man, that dude totally fell for it. They have no proof that you took it(well, certainly not enough to be able to do anything). It was a bloody bluff, in this situation the best thing to do is ignore them and keep walking.

nostrumfiend

01-29-2009, 12:50 AM

Oh man, that dude totally fell for it. They have no proof that you took it(well, certainly not enough to be able to do anything). It was a bloody bluff, in this situation the best thing to do is ignore them and keep walking.

And get tackled? At least he TRIED this way.

Hyper-dimension

01-29-2009, 03:12 AM

What the hell is Theft 1? Is it a felony? VA had Larceny(Misdemeanor) and Grand Larceny(Felony).

I've been busted at Wal-Mart twice, the first was stealing two packs of ciggies when I was 15, the other time it was four CD's at a ghetto ass Wal-Mart in Atlanta.

The first time the LP guy approached me outside on the sidewalk and asked me to come back in and show him where I set down the cigs, which I stupidly did. I wound up taking off, but the guy already had cops at the doors and one wrapped me up and smashed my face on the pavement outside. I got court ordered(probation for children).

The second time I went quietly. Spent 24 hours in jail, my lawyer gets me out and gets the charges dropped by informing the store manager he will be suing the store for, quote: "causing my client to want to steal the CD's". Funniest shit ever(he explained this to me between shots of Jack, snorts of coke, and wiping coke off his fancy suit).

I also got the lifetime ban on both occasions, but I go back as much as I want anyways, although not to either of those two stores. Tell your friend to go to as many different stores as he can, don't go to the same store over and over again.

Intuition707

01-29-2009, 04:20 AM

In addition to what fishmonger says your post makes no sense. If the computer keeps records of what is PURCHASED then they will not know you have all of the things in the box because there is no RECORD because they were not PURCHASED.

Costco does have cameras many cameras. if you box stuff you will most likely get caught. i worked there for 3 years and many people got caught this way. but they never caught the guys that ran out the emergency exit with plasma tvs.

fishmonger

01-29-2009, 10:30 AM

Yeah it's a crappy situation. Theft 1 is actually a felony isnt that sad? The police said something about using the S3 key as a "tool", being premeditated, and then attempting to flee. This is his first offense of any kind.
The whole thing is really ironic. It was a wal-mart out of his area and he had not been to that particular one for a long time. So there is no worry about going back to that particular one but being in the LP books is definitely gonna make things harder.

He said in the LP room they only had 1 PC with 1 monitor that had software that could manipulate all the cameras in the store with several cams on screen at the same time. The room was appearantly the size of a closet. He also saw the head LP guy and one of the officers flipping through a binder with guys faces and they would point people out and say oh yeah thats so and so. :mad:

fishmonger

01-29-2009, 10:34 AM

Sounds like Costco's might vary in different areas.

All the ones around me have no EAS towers, no cameras except pointed at the registers, and the LP are super easy to spot because they walkies make all kinds of noise.

nostrumfiend

01-29-2009, 02:27 PM

nostrumfiend

01-29-2009, 02:54 PM

Would going in with a bag from another store that I could put maybe one or two small things from costco in be effective? Less suspicious than a backpack.

I guess costco sees maybe one in 20,000 people come in and leave without anything bought though.

What do you guys think?

Felony

01-29-2009, 05:08 PM

Costco only checks for an ID at the entrance. I have been inside costco a number of times without any ID whatsoever. All I do is walk up behind a family and when the (OLD) lady who checks ID stops me, I just say I'm with the family, and I walk in then scatter. Boom, take whatever you want, and then on your way out, follow another family and walk next to them out, no security towers, just a few cameras in globes. as far as I know, there is no LP due to the amount of employees.

Good luck! :D

plutomic

01-29-2009, 10:52 PM

McSpanky

01-29-2009, 11:03 PM

you know what would be a fun way to shop lift? get a big group...of like 30-40 people.. then just waltz into any store, and just have at whatever you want... I doubt the LP is even crazy enough to try to stop you..

Plus you guys can split up everywhere afterwards..

Check this vid out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utkkXCF8ZVc&feature=PlayList&p=664CE9F900A9D699&playnext=1&index=22

An Improv Comedy group made this, sent like 80 people dressed as BB employees into the store (with no malicious intentions they just wanted to get reactions) and the real employees were freaking out thinking it was some Ocean's 11 style heist.

StokedUp

01-29-2009, 11:28 PM

Check this vid out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utkkXCF8ZVc&feature=PlayList&p=664CE9F900A9D699&playnext=1&index=22

An Improv Comedy group made this, sent like 80 people dressed as BB employees into the store (with no malicious intentions they just wanted to get reactions) and the real employees were freaking out thinking it was some Ocean's 11 style heist.

Haha bookmarked! They do some funny shit them guys, just been looking at their site :)

nostrumfiend

01-30-2009, 01:13 AM

Do they normally have one or two exits?

It would be weird to go in "with a family" but leave alone. Not incredibly weird but something I'd like to avoid.

Leshrac

01-30-2009, 03:55 AM

Haha bookmarked! They do some funny shit them guys, just been looking at their site :)

You could even make money that way...

Notice how they prevent people from leaving the store and grab them so the cops can question them.

- Assault
- Defamation of character
- Unlawful use of force (including frisking/restraining someone without a probable cause)- no, being dressed the same way as someone else is NOT a probable cause.

How about they do this then sue the fuck out of the store/city for various abuses ?

Hyper-dimension

01-30-2009, 05:44 AM

What did your lawyer say was the reasoning for "causing my client to want o steal the CD's"?

Well, his reasoning in speaking to me was simply: "Yeah, they don't want to deal with or pay for a fuckin lawsuit, so I can sue them for anything and they'll let you go."

The suit mentioned a couple of other equally ridiculous points, but I don't remember them. And yes, he was certainly right; they dropped the charges pretty fast. I was taken to court from jail the next day and the judge said something like: "uhhh...you will be released due to a paperwork error made by the arresting officer". Went back to my cell, came out to eat a few minutes later, name was called, and listened to things like "man you knew you was leavin an' couldn' gives me yer sammich? I's hungry!" as I walked out. It's my sandwich, motherfucker.

fishmonger

01-30-2009, 09:26 AM

The exits are seperate. At the exit the employees (sometimes I've seen up to 2-3) are supposed to check every receipt. They really just look at it and draw a big black line down it. If you are carrying a Xbox 360 let's say they are definitely gonna take the time to look at your receipt.
Tons of people go in and do not purchase anything. For all the greeters know you are just with some one else who is making a $1000 purchase.

fishmonger

01-30-2009, 09:32 AM

Man I went to Fry's electronics for the first time. There aren't any in my area. It was like a Costco of electronics. I was so tempted to just take everything. Very few cameras, everything was in the open, no visible EAS towers, employees were very clear they did not give a crap about anything/anyone.

Felony

01-31-2009, 01:45 AM

Do they normally have one or two exits?

It would be weird to go in "with a family" but leave alone. Not incredibly weird but something I'd like to avoid.

The entrance is usually separate from the exit, with a huge wall in the center of both with products on it. Plus different people. Even if they do ask you whats up, just say oh, im going to warm up the car.:fap:

Trix Are For Kids

02-02-2009, 01:05 AM

one more thing: only take what you came for. the less time your in there the better

YES this point cannot be stressed enough

plutomic

02-02-2009, 02:25 AM

Hyper-dimension

02-02-2009, 02:49 AM

i believe most people get caught because they try to be too sneaky and the look obvious... When I shoplift, I look at the package, read front and back.I then look like im confident I made a good choice.. I then stroll around the store using my razor blade to slowly cut it open, when i hit a blind spot i get everything out, pocket it... Then as im walking i re-read the package and appear to have a change of heart and put it back on the shelf..

This might work on some, or even many items, but not all. When SWIM got a Blu-Ray player at Wal-Mart this obviously wouldn't have worked.

It is true however, that you shouldn't look the fuck. Or look like a dirtbag. You know who gets caught shoplifting? Kids with jeans dangling from their pockets, and greasy hair, with their eyes darting everywhere. The cost of your appearance should correlate positively with the cost of your target. When SWIM procured a Dyson vacuum at Macy's or , they certainly didn't do it wearing a 'My nuts are bigger than your's!' t-shirt. Their nails were trimmed. Their teeth were brushed. Their hair was combed.

The key is to not be targeted when you walk in.

Also, I'm not insinuating that anyone here has unbrushed teeth and greasy hair. Or owns a 'My nuts are bigger than your's!' t-shirt. Yuck.

powder

02-03-2009, 11:57 AM

Friendo is on the money, image is everything.
When cellphones first came out and were a status symbol, pro thieves would wear a toy-one along with a suit, tie, fake glasses, classy shoes, nerd-style hair, etc. It all helps..
If you look like you have a good job or you dont fit the demographic they, in all likelyness, wont fuck with you.. If you look like a punk, even a clean one, they are gonna be sniffin you out..
Personally I dont have the control of emotions needed to do it, but I have known many in the biz.. An ex of mine was an absolute master. She could stick a plasma t.v in a trolley and walk straight out, smiling politely at the cashiers on her way.

.it

02-05-2009, 06:49 PM

what are good items to take and return or resell?

smokedrow

02-05-2009, 11:25 PM

. An ex of mine was an absolute master. She could stick a plasma t.v in a trolley and walk straight out, smiling politely at the cashiers on her way.

thats a bad bitch

Rush2Lush

02-06-2009, 02:19 AM

Hyper-dimension

02-06-2009, 04:17 AM

If you don't want to pay $$$ for a big neodymium magnet it is possible to take pencil tags off using an N42 1" dia. x 1/4" thick magnet. A larger stronger magnet makes it easier but I'm just hoping to dispel the myth that you need a N52 $100+ magnet to detach hard tags.

I think people generally say N45 works fine. My question is why everyone tapes a bunch of magnets together instead of buying one larger magnet. I guess its cheaper to buy the four smaller magnets, but I think I would rather spend the money on a single large magnet.

I found this:

1" Wide x 3/4" Thick x 2" Long
NdFeB Block Magnet, Grade N45, Ni-Cu-Ni Plated with Matte finish,
The top & bottom flat faces are the north & south poles.
Click on image for larger pic.
WARNING - VERY POWERFUL
1" W x 3/4" thick x 2" Long
Block - Pack of 1: $22.00

At this link that someone posted over on Totse:

Would this not work on keeper cases? For $22?

FURAK

02-07-2009, 03:29 PM

Apparently Target is actually brushing for fingerprints and shit with the major boosters now.

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=11869465&ch=4226713&src=news

BiggLJ

02-07-2009, 07:27 PM

Apparently Target is actually brushing for fingerprints and shit with the major boosters now.

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=11869465&ch=4226713&src=news

Crazy shit! 1 thing I didn't get though...they said they caught 1 guy selling a Sopranos DVD set on eBay by comparing fingerprints from that and a tissue box he'd handled...how'd they prove the merch was stolen? Video of him lifting? I don't think they ever really explained it.

It's cool to see how pro shoplifters work, doesn't look like they're much more skilled than the average thief, just a lot ballsier.

-Analysis-

02-07-2009, 07:33 PM

when shoplifting the ppl who work at the stores get payed to little to give a fuck if u are stealing or not as of serial numbers ea games can be cunts

Steal_Everything

02-07-2009, 07:48 PM

I think people generally say N45 works fine. My question is why everyone tapes a bunch of magnets together instead of buying one larger magnet. I guess its cheaper to buy the four smaller magnets, but I think I would rather spend the money on a single large magnet.

I found this:

1" Wide x 3/4" Thick x 2" Long
NdFeB Block Magnet, Grade N45, Ni-Cu-Ni Plated with Matte finish,
The top & bottom flat faces are the north & south poles.
Click on image for larger pic.
WARNING - VERY POWERFUL
1" W x 3/4" thick x 2" Long
Block - Pack of 1: $22.00

At this link that someone posted over on Totse:

Would this not work on keeper cases? For $22?

lmfao, that's overkill. 1" x 1/4" x 1/8" works fine. Source: I've tried it myself. I got 4 of them for like $8. idr where though.

phatyphilly93

02-08-2009, 01:55 AM

lmfao, that's overkill. 1" x 1/4" x 1/8" works fine. Source: I've tried it myself. I got 4 of them for like $8. idr where though.

can you research and try to remember where you bought it?? i need one that works and I only have one chance since I dont wanna order wrong ones and waste money

Hyper-dimension

02-08-2009, 06:43 AM

lmfao, that's overkill. 1" x 1/4" x 1/8" works fine. Source: I've tried it myself. I got 4 of them for like $8. idr where though.

So you have to use all four together? Or just one of these opens keepers?

Steal_Everything

02-08-2009, 03:12 PM

can you research and try to remember where you bought it?? i need one that works and I only have one chance since I dont wanna order wrong ones and waste money

This is exactly what I bought: http://kjmagnetics.com/proddetail.asp?prod=BX082

So you have to use all four together? Or just one of these opens keepers?'

Yeah, you have to put them in a 2x2 formation. Supposedly the creator of the idea tried all these other combinations, and only 2x2 worked. Sauce: Jesusnacho posted about it on Totse years ago.

dudes....

wtf........

its so much easier to buy the original key...
it looks way more professional and looks better.

Are you kidding me? The original key is actually harder to acquire than the 4 magnets. You have to prove that you own a business, or pay some fucktard on the internet $100 each for them. I'd rather pay $6 + $4 shipping for the magnets than send $100 to some guy I've only seen on a forum.

tl;dr: GTFO

.it

02-08-2009, 08:57 PM

This is exactly what I bought: http://kjmagnetics.com/proddetail.asp?prod=BX082

'

Yeah, you have to put them in a 2x2 formation. Supposedly the creator of the idea tried all these other combinations, and only 2x2 worked. Sauce: Jesusnacho posted about it on Totse years ago.

Are you kidding me? The original key is actually harder to acquire than the 4 magnets. You have to prove that you own a business, or pay some fucktard on the internet $100 each for them. I'd rather pay $6 + $4 shipping for the magnets than send $100 to some guy I've only seen on a forum.

tl;dr: GTFO

whoa whoa, vinnipooh has confirmed his delivery with items already by numerous members.

Steal_Everything

02-09-2009, 04:24 AM

whoa whoa, vinnipooh has confirmed his delivery with items already by numerous members.

hahaha, you act like that actually makes a difference. Why spend $100 when you can spend $10?

Also, his fucking shit that he sells to remove hard tags can easily be made out of other materials, 'cept he charges like $60 for that shit. Fuck that.

.it

02-09-2009, 07:18 AM

hahaha, you act like that actually makes a difference. Why spend $100 when you can spend $10?

Also, his fucking shit that he sells to remove hard tags can easily be made out of other materials, 'cept he charges like $60 for that shit. Fuck that.

why dont you make something that removes hard tags, or s3 alpha keys. and i'll pay you for it.

Hyper-dimension

02-09-2009, 11:41 PM

This is exactly what I bought: http://kjmagnetics.com/proddetail.asp?prod=BX082

Yeah, you have to put them in a 2x2 formation. Supposedly the creator of the idea tried all these other combinations, and only 2x2 worked. Sauce: Jesusnacho posted about it on Totse years ago.

Yeah, I've read Jesusnacho's guide a couple of times, but it's a pain in the ass to make any sense of it. I guess I'll stick with the 2x2, since you say a single large magnet doesn't seem to work.

The page you provided also mentions that size is available in grade N52 for a mere $0.45 more apiece. Would this upgrade make any difference to performance?

phatyphilly93

02-10-2009, 01:00 AM

@@@

02-10-2009, 01:44 AM

Read his fucking tutorial you fucking retard.

fishmonger

02-11-2009, 09:47 PM

Apparently Target is actually brushing for fingerprints and shit with the major boosters now.

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=11869465&ch=4226713&src=news

That video looks super familiar. I think excerpts from it are used in a history channel type of documentary called "boosting" or something like that.

What is really scary is the part about catching the barcoder guys. They were
working in a team and still got caught? I dunno about that.

But seriously the target guy was bragging they had 60K apprehensions last year? How many of those were middle school kids stealing sodas?

I think news clips like that are designed to scare the sheep.

This is exactly what I bought: http://kjmagnetics.com/proddetail.asp?prod=BX082

I will check that site.... I bought from nuclear magnetics and it took 10 business days to ship from them, not even counting transit time. There
was also no word from them at all after I placed my order, I had to call.

Also what I can never figure out is why does everyone want to pay for an S3 key? STEAL IT!!!!! we are talking about stealing right? it is a shoplifting tool.
On the other hand the jesus nachos method is awesome because it could be concealed and if you are caught it wouldn't be considered a shoplifting tool. I would also imagine that the jesus nachos method would take practice because it doesnt have the small hooks on the side like the S3 handkey.

As far as buying from VinniPooh I can vouch he ships right away exactly as described and the sensormatic hook is awesome for $60 or whatever.

monsoon malabar

02-12-2009, 12:54 AM

I've spend quite the amount of time in costco seeing its where I go to use the 1 hour photo lab. Since I have to wait for an hour I usually just walk around the store, looking at shit but never buying. I remember one time though, after walking around for awhile, I noticed there was a man in a hat, with a button down shirt and jeans following me. Apart from the fact i realized he was tailing me, he was pretty well disguised. I found it interesting and walked around the store acting sketchy since I had nothing else to do. They seem to have afew cameras, but not too many. I know with video games, their policy is you take a piece of cardboard with the game name on it, pay for it at the register, they give you a receipt, you take that receipt to someone else, who goes into this closet like thing, and gets your shit. They than mark the receipt and than you go to the door where you present your receipt and they check it and mark it again and you leave. I don't know about the possibility of duplicating receipts, but since they dont check the receipts too much (or at least I don't think they do) it might be possible. I don't know.

macnolias

02-12-2009, 03:38 AM

Yea you guys should really look into receipt printers of all things. You walk around grab a nice high ticket item that you can get your hands on and pre-print a receipt that will show the time/date/and regular company bs that should be on it and be on your way out the door! It can't get any easier than that!

.it

02-15-2009, 03:53 AM

brody_d

02-16-2009, 03:28 PM

I guess ill contribute to this unpopular topic. Fitting rooms are a good place to jack at most stores. I truly dough any store will have surveillance cameras in a fitting room. Dept store at the mall are too easy, even Neiman Marcus.

fishmonger

02-16-2009, 07:36 PM

My magnet did not work... and this is what I got.

http://www.magnet4less.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_122&products_id=678

its grade 52, what gives..

but as i did walk around, metal bars caught the attention of what was in my pocket. some of the guys folding clothes were kind of like wtf? and suspicious after that point.

If you followed the youtube videos and are using the magnet on the correct side there is a chance it is a bad magnet? Some internet retailers sell low quality ones and claim they are powerful.

plutomic

02-16-2009, 07:45 PM

Hey guys. Can you tell me the best way to remove ink tags??

I stole 2 pairs of jeans friday... but i couldn't take more because the rest had ink tags=/

.it

02-17-2009, 05:01 AM

http://www.cdmaximum.com/products.cgi?Operation=ItemLookup&ItemId=B0012AWV9A does this magnet look like it will remove most ink tags? is this a good site?

fishmonger

02-17-2009, 08:53 AM

Ok so I have decided I am a genius....

If you have been caught shoplifting before with a tool it's automatically intent to steal. This is bad.
Shoplifters want to carry an S3 Alpha key but don't want to get caught with it right?

here is my solution:

1) make a JesusNachos S3 home made key with 4 neodymium magnets

2) get a finger cast/splint thing from the grocery store (steal it dont pay for it duh!)

3) attach the magnets to the bottom of the finger cast thing

4) you now have an S3 key on your finger and it'd be near impossible to prove it's a shoplifting tool!

Steal_Everything

02-17-2009, 11:27 AM

fishmonger

02-17-2009, 08:32 PM

It could work, but it would look pretty bulky. Not only that, but you'd stick to anything metal that you touched. God forbid you had your bank cards on you. There's just so much that could go wrong with this. The magnets are really strong.

very true, I don't carry any personal items on me when i lift so i wouldn't touch my bank cards. I just figured it would be on the bottom side of your finger so you could just keep it flat against your side. I used to carry an S3 key in my pocket all the time and it never got stuck on anything. I just never put anything in the same pocket with it.

plutomic

02-17-2009, 10:27 PM

someone wanna provide some decent instuctions to make an s3 key??

Steal_Everything

02-18-2009, 04:02 AM

None of you waste your money on Vinnipooh's S3 keys. Maybe the Sensormatic hooks, but not the Alpha keys.... This method works just as well: http://s156.photobucket.com/albums/t33/jesusnachos/

Now fucking bookmark it and read the shit it says. It's self-fucking-explanatory. Just buy the magnets. Should come to around $10 with shipping INCLUDED.

Reptar

02-18-2009, 11:22 PM

It's true if you wanna get good shit lifting, you gotta invest a little cash you know, spend money to make money, why waste your time making shitty ass hooks, when you can just buy them off a person. Who is confirmed to ship, and actually has decent tools, stop wasting your time making your own shit.

or just keep stealing bags of chips from wal mart

StokedUp

02-19-2009, 02:29 PM

I've had a magnetic detacher for tags but it was too big to be practical and take out to shops.
Are there any portable/small ones around and for a good price or homemade ones that work?
Would a high strenth ring magnet work do you think?

I Still Needmoney

02-22-2009, 01:02 AM

Can I just say...

Those who talk about carrying knives and razors and shit whilst shoplifting -

You DO know that if they find a weapon on you they can set you up for armed robbery?

RoundElephant

02-22-2009, 11:31 PM

Can I just say...

Those who talk about carrying knives and razors and shit whilst shoplifting -

You DO know that if they find a weapon on you they can set you up for armed robbery?

Not if you say it was a tool used to open packages and don't stray from your story.

Dagon

02-23-2009, 01:59 AM

Can I just say...

Those who talk about carrying knives and razors and shit whilst shoplifting -

You DO know that if they find a weapon on you they can set you up for armed robbery?

I'll tell you what when I was 18 me and my friends were using knives to cut open $100-$200 walkmans from that thick plastic. When we were out in the parking lot the cops showed up and drew their guns on us. We all got hit with felonies.

Steal_Everything

02-23-2009, 01:41 PM

Not if you say it was a tool used to open packages and don't stray from your story.

Using a device to defeat anti-shoplifting devices is a felony in most states.

Also, I'm done trying to convince people to make their own S3 keys. If you're stupid enough to buy one from Vinnipooh, then I won't waste my breath.

Steal_Everything

02-24-2009, 12:48 AM

ever think of buying em from a store going out of business?
or stealing one....
idc just throwing it out there
thats what i did

S3 keys have RFID coils inside of them. You need a special screwdriver to open it up and take it out.

spaceman spiff

02-25-2009, 05:13 AM

Hyper-dimension

02-25-2009, 07:19 AM

so what is the best way to neutralize simple "stickers" so to speak that can be found on the outside of for instance, small electronic items like video games, etc. they are simply a quare roughly 1" by 1". sometimes they can just be peeled off but is there a simpler way any of you guys have discovered? like just swiping a magnet over it or something?

also, the EAS magnetized strips? what are the best way around those? if you cant just simply avoid the eas towers or the eas strip is on a surface that makes it hard to peel off and/or is inside the merchandise.

also, i am borderline shocked to see that no one in here has said about the rubber-band tactic to removing hard tags... maybe i am just missing something lol but that is what i used to do when i was younger and just stole small things like clothes and shit from the mall haha

I use shop snips to remove hard tags. The pin usually isn't pushed in all the way, and can be cut off in two seconds. When that isn't the case, I snip off a corner of the tag to expose the pin inside the tag.

As for the RFID tags(soft tags), I just rip them off. Play guitar, it makes your fingers strong. Honestly, 9 out of 10 products I simply remove from the packaging in order to avoid soft tags.

The only ocassions(most of the time) that I actually need to rip them off is lifting DVDs, CDs, or video games(like you mentioned). They will always peel right off the cases, though the RFID tags may take a bit of work if distribution center employees happened to have pounded it on with their fist. The strips are a cinch, if you start to peel and the metal is staying behind, just move to the other end. Some people prefer to simply take the disks, but I don't see the point in taking a movie, album, or game without the case. It has also been said that cutting across the RFID tags you mentioned will prevent them from activating alarms, as the circuit has been cut. Better safe than sorry, however. Remove them.

For larger items in boxes, I simply rip them from the cardboard, no big deal. You also have to watch out for tags stuffed inside electronics. For instance, battery compartments sometimes hold an EAS tag stuck to a little piece of cardboard, but the cardboard obviously makes it a simple matter of pulling it out. When SWIM got their Blu-Ray player, there was a tag inside the battery compartment of the remote, but luckily there wasn't a tag inside the disk drive, as this has been the case with portable DVD players.

fishmonger

02-25-2009, 09:34 AM

S3 keys have RFID coils inside of them. You need a special screwdriver to open it up and take it out.

a. people beep going out the door all the time. buy something that commonly beeps and then just return it.

b. bring the security screw driver with you

c. not all alpha keys have the rfid tag in them

Steal_Everything

02-25-2009, 02:10 PM

a. people beep going out the door all the time. buy something that commonly beeps and then just return it.

b. bring the security screw driver with you

c. not all alpha keys have the rfid tag in them

I know, I was just letting people know, because I'm willing to bet that a majority of the people here didn't know that. Just make your own fucking key and stop trying to go all 007 in this shit. It's just as effective. Sometimes the simplest option is the best.

Freddyfb

02-25-2009, 10:32 PM

Ive read this whole thread and im still curious what exactly is a s3 key and how do you make it?
The thread with instructions is not exactly detailed especially since i dont know what one is
Im tryin to steal from macys and i need to no if it a s3 key gets off ink tags?
Thanks guys

fishmonger

02-26-2009, 09:37 AM

Spyrall

02-27-2009, 04:42 PM

I'm going to buy a ring magnet

But I need to know;
What's the minimum Nxx grade needed to use on most hard tags ?

And does the volume of the magnet make a difference?

Spyrall

02-27-2009, 05:04 PM

FACT = cheap magnets lose power over time.

if you want to be safe, and use magnet for a long time, as well as open all magnetic tags get something with magnetic force: ≥16,000GS:machine_gun::machine_gun:

lulz :D
See rorta for reply ^^

spaceman spiff

02-27-2009, 07:15 PM

I use shop snips to remove hard tags. The pin usually isn't pushed in all the way, and can be cut off in two seconds. When that isn't the case, I snip off a corner of the tag to expose the pin inside the tag.

As for the RFID tags(soft tags), I just rip them off. Play guitar, it makes your fingers strong. Honestly, 9 out of 10 products I simply remove from the packaging in order to avoid soft tags.

The only ocassions(most of the time) that I actually need to rip them off is lifting DVDs, CDs, or video games(like you mentioned). They will always peel right off the cases, though the RFID tags may take a bit of work if distribution center employees happened to have pounded it on with their fist. The strips are a cinch, if you start to peel and the metal is staying behind, just move to the other end. Some people prefer to simply take the disks, but I don't see the point in taking a movie, album, or game without the case. It has also been said that cutting across the RFID tags you mentioned will prevent them from activating alarms, as the circuit has been cut. Better safe than sorry, however. Remove them.

For larger items in boxes, I simply rip them from the cardboard, no big deal. You also have to watch out for tags stuffed inside electronics. For instance, battery compartments sometimes hold an EAS tag stuck to a little piece of cardboard, but the cardboard obviously makes it a simple matter of pulling it out. When SWIM got their Blu-Ray player, there was a tag inside the battery compartment of the remote, but luckily there wasn't a tag inside the disk drive, as this has been the case with portable DVD players.

ok cool thanks man. helpful tip about the shop snips...
i do some of that other stuff already though... you know like the fairly obvious, relatively primitive things like take it out the package or rip off the security tags or RFID things etc, i just didnt know if there are any sure fire ways to scramble the RFID tags so they are useless, or deactivate the EAS strips that you know are located inside the merch (again, a good example is video games) without having to cut into the case its kept in or whatever.... like for re-sale purposes of the lifted item without it being open, etc. or so that you can return the stuff to another store for credit or something.

oh and i play college football, WR to be exact, so i got plenty strong fingers. so there will be no guitar but thanks for the idea lol.

and finally, one last thing, im new to these forums what is/who is SWIM?

Hyper-dimension

03-01-2009, 03:51 PM

ok cool thanks man. helpful tip about the shop snips...
i do some of that other stuff already though... you know like the fairly obvious, relatively primitive things like take it out the package or rip off the security tags or RFID things etc, i just didnt know if there are any sure fire ways to scramble the RFID tags so they are useless, or deactivate the EAS strips that you know are located inside the merch (again, a good example is video games) without having to cut into the case its kept in or whatever.... like for re-sale purposes of the lifted item without it being open, etc. or so that you can return the stuff to another store for credit or something.

oh and i play college football, WR to be exact, so i got plenty strong fingers. so there will be no guitar but thanks for the idea lol.

and finally, one last thing, im new to these forums what is/who is SWIM?

To avoid opening the package: magic bag. Google it.

SWIM = Someone Who Isn't Me

.it

03-02-2009, 08:21 PM

i still want to know what people think about the magnets that remove ink tags, and whats the best place to get them.

Steal_Everything

03-02-2009, 11:44 PM

these magnets i use are over 18,000GS!

so strong, so easy to use, most of the time you dont even have to make contact with the surface of the magnet.

these are the best.

http://forum.rorta.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=405&d=1236030694

If 18,000 GS will do it without even making contact with the tag, then I'm pretty sure a N50 magnet will suffice: http://www.kjmagnetics.com/specs.asp

.it

03-03-2009, 02:16 AM

well as you read on prev posts somepeople claim that the magnets didnt work.

also check out my pic of the mag, its not flat its got the hole in the middle so it makes adifferent magnetic field than a flat magnet

can these keys remove ink tags from clothes? didnt know s3 keys did so much...
how much were you selling those things for? $100?

and can anyone confirm if these really remove ink tags, pencil tags etc.

Steal_Everything

03-03-2009, 02:56 AM

can these keys remove ink tags from clothes? didnt know s3 keys did so much...
how much were you selling those things for? $100?

and can anyone confirm if these really remove ink tags, pencil tags etc.

S3 keys can remove all of Alpha security's anti-theft devices.

A lot of ink tags can be removed with the sensormatic hook that VINIPOOH is selling. However, most ink tags just have ink in them and can just be cut off with wire snippers anyway.

Broke

03-03-2009, 06:33 AM

My magnet did not work... and this is what I got.

http://www.magnet4less.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_122&products_id=678

its grade 52, what gives..

but as i did walk around, metal bars caught the attention of what was in my pocket. some of the guys folding clothes were kind of like wtf? and suspicious after that point.

gee whiz what the hell did you think you were getting for $10...theres a reason why quality large neyodium magnets are $50+ :facepalm:

Broke

03-03-2009, 06:38 AM

can these keys remove ink tags from clothes? didnt know s3 keys did so much...
how much were you selling those things for? $100?

and can anyone confirm if these really remove ink tags, pencil tags etc.

you are so ignorant i dont even know where to start helping you...i pity the fool donate to my project <myspace.com/fivefingerdiscountproject>

no hooks cannot open ink tags unless its a sensormatic hard tag with an ink tag built into it

inktags can be opened with a strong magnet.

no you cannot just walk off with an s3 key because a) the lanyard it is attached on will take you about 5 minutes to cut through with wire cutters (from personal experience) b) there is a non deactivatable tag inside the s3 key which has to be removed by unscrewing the wierd ass screws that the s3 key is held by

Tokerface

03-03-2009, 06:42 AM

Can I just say...

Those who talk about carrying knives and razors and shit whilst shoplifting -

You DO know that if they find a weapon on you they can set you up for armed robbery?

for ink tags all you need is a lighter

Steal_Everything

03-03-2009, 11:27 AM

for ink tags all you need is a lighter

It's hard to keep the molten plastic off of the clothing and to get the right part melted. Also, the smell of burning plastic is atrocious.

spaceman spiff

03-04-2009, 10:50 PM

QUOTE-Friendo:To avoid opening the package: magic bag. Google it.

i did. unfortunately there are a lot of "magic bags". what kinda magic bag we talkin bout here? lol

@@@

03-04-2009, 11:03 PM

QUOTE-Friendo:To avoid opening the package: magic bag. Google it.

i did. unfortunately there are a lot of "magic bags". what kinda magic bag we talkin bout here? lol

this is a good tutorial on magic bags

http://www.rotteneggs.com/r3/show/se/210522.html

.it

03-05-2009, 12:37 AM

shut the fuck up broke, i already know those things, but i havent used an s3 key before.

fuck your film and fuck you.

fishmonger

03-05-2009, 05:52 AM

wow this thread is useless. could a mod clean up the last page or so?

and just so I am contributing:

A lot of grocery stores sell HP ink cartridges. These sell well because its a consumable item. They sell really close to their retail value and people are much more likely to buy an original than a refilled one.
Easy and little to no chance of getting caught.

Steal_Everything

03-05-2009, 06:15 PM

MAN :facepalm:

some people dont know anything :facepalm:

lights:confused: clippers:confused: and you guys what to use these in the store:O think about it lighter - smoke:thumbsdown: clippers - sharp noise:thumbsdown:

what u need are tools;) alpha keys, sensormatic hooks, magnets. - now these real - original tools make no noise at all! NOW THINK ABOUT THAT:)

Considering that 90% of ink tags don't even have RFID tags in them, you can just take them home and snip them off. They're really just there to be a physical deterrent because people have so many misconceptions about them. The sharp noise really isn't that loud or sharp; it's comparable to the noise a coathanger makes when you put it on a metal hook. Nobody will bat an eye at it. And usually, no employees are close enough to the changing room that you're in to hear it.

spaceman spiff

03-05-2009, 09:17 PM

haha dude who wants to put money on the fact that vinnipooh and stealeverything are the same guy... haha dude u really think we're that dumb? ok, we get it. you have retail quality merch. stop ramming it down our throats and polluting the forum with the fact that you do.

aaand about the magic bag, the link you gave me is good, but can anyone verify that this works?? link:

http://www.rotteneggs.com/r3/show/se/210522.html

cause if so, that is nuts. like on a scale of 1 to E-40, that is so sick.

Steal_Everything

03-05-2009, 11:53 PM

Steal_Everything u are a genius. Ok you plan to take something with tags on it and walk by the towers:facepalm:. ya that is smart. only a dumb ass lifter would do this. smart dudes do not even consider this.

I have done it. Simply by look at some tags you can tell whether or not they have RFID tags inside of them. Another method is to simply walk close to (and perpendicular to) the sensors and if they go off, you can just say you weren't leaving.

and no you got you % mixed up:rant:. 90% of stores use tags with RFID ink tags, they only cost few cents more. only the cheaper 10% of stores, private owned use the cheap tags without rfid.

Most stores that use tags don't have RFID tags in a majority of there products. I've heard of countless people who have bought clothes, the salesperson forgot to take the tag off, and they walked out with no alarm going off. I have NEVER heard of someone walking out with just clothing and having the alarm go off because of a tag. I'm not saying such tags don't exist, I am just saying that from personal experience, I have never seen one that has. SWIM has stolen over 30 shirts from various stores and none of the tags that SWIM cut off later at home set off the alarms on the way out. SWIM also stole these shirts from 'nicer' stores. SWIM stole them from Dillard's, Macy's, and a variety of other chains that sell such brands as Nordstrom, and Ralph Lauren. SWIM says the shirts retailed anywhere from $75 - $200. SWIM also thinks you're a dipshit that is talking out of your ass to try and sell a product that people don't really need.

also nice stores have workers stand by the dressing rooms when someone is using them. so trying to cut a tag will def get attention.

Like I said, the noise that snipping a tag makes is comparable to hanging up a coat hanger. It is absolutely nothing that will raise suspicion, and if you tried it yourself you would realize that.

Wow i cant believe you would consider walking out with tags. that kind of shit gets u busted!:facepalm:

No, it's not. People who have expensive tools that make them feel invincible get overconfident, and that is what "gets u busted!"

DAMN.... WHY CANT YOU JUST SPEND ALITTLE $ AND GET THE SAME QUALITY DETACHERS THE STORES ARE USING???

Because there is ABSOLUTELY NO NEED for me to.

with the right.original.oem.authentic detachers you can take off tags in 1 second without noise:cool:. they work 100% of the time EVERYTIME.:eek:

And without spending $60 or w.e. the fuck you're charging you can do the EXACT same thing EVERYTIME for FREE.

being an expert in this field i can say that MAGIC bags do not work 100% of the time with all TOWERS. so u wanna take that chance?

What makes you an expert in the field? Being a PHYSICS MAJOR at a UNIVERSITY I can tell you that a properly constructed Faraday cage WILL work 100% of the time. The trick is making sure you construct it properly.

also just cause steal everything and I are opposites (hes a dumb ass lifter im a legit smooth lifter,seller,provider) does not make us the same, link us, we are not linked in any way. that dudes not thinking straight - doesnt know wtf is going on.

You've offered no proof that you're a legit, smooth lifter. And you are less of a seller/provider and more of a prick that's trying to rip off the dipshits that don't know what they're doing that listen to and believe you. You also have no reasonable cause to believe that I am a "dumb ass lifter" that is "not thinking straight" and "doesn't know wtf is going on" other than your own ignorance. You're trying to discredit the information that I give through slander and lies in general, and if anyone from here on out is too stupid to realize that I'm the one that's telling the truth, and that he's a dealer just trying to make himself money, then I'm done trying to convince them. He has no reason to want to help you, and is clearly trying to profit instead of inform. I am obviously here just to inform and meet people that know as much or more than I do to share tips. I will helps the novices, and try and shy people away from dirtbags like you.

Also, I'm not VINNIPOOH. We have two completely different typing styles. He types like the fucking kidiot that he is. I type like someone that's written so many damned research papers that it is habit for me to use decent spelling, punctuation, and grammar. /rant.

MrNatowski

03-06-2009, 12:57 AM

Steal_Everything

03-06-2009, 01:48 AM

I'm gonna have to disagree with the statement about Vinipooh trying to rip people off. I bought a hook off him awhile ago and it make my life a helluva lot easier.

BTW, get caught with a pair of wire cutters and that's a felony, and it makes the charge a helluva lot more serious. If you have a hook on the other hand, here's a tip. You know those little pockets on the right hand side of jeans? Stick it in there and no one's going to find it if you get patted down.

Hmm...Carry a pair of wire cutters around and get busted with a felony, or spend $60 to avoid making any noise, and drastically reduce your chance of getting busted.

Bottom line.
If any of you did half the shit you brag about, the $60 for a hook wouldn't be a big deal.

It's a felony either way if you get caught... In my state it's a 3rd degree felony for using any sort of tool/item to defeat an anti-theft device. And you say that nobody will find it if you get patted down by a cop... Have you ever been patted down by a cop? The go through your pockets, big and small. Carrying the hook won't "drastically reduce your chance of getting busted."; being smart in the first place will.

ok. steal everything u are a genius like i said.

i want u to take a friend who has a video camera. ok?:hammer2:

go to the mall and go to a store.... say ABERCROMBIE.

take a shirt with a tag.... and walk out of the store...:shit:. and have ur friend film you and post ur film on here.

I'll think about it.

MrNatowski

03-06-2009, 03:30 AM

It's a felony either way if you get caught... In my state it's a 3rd degree felony for using any sort of tool/item to defeat an anti-theft device. And you say that nobody will find it if you get patted down by a cop... Have you ever been patted down by a cop? The go through your pockets, big and small. Carrying the hook won't "drastically reduce your chance of getting busted."; being smart in the first place will.

I'll think about it.

Yes I have. Never had them check the small pocket on the side of the jeans, even the one time I got caught shoplifting and he emptied all of my pockets. The cool thing is when you put it in the side pocket, you can barely feel it. It actually feels like the seam of the pocket because of the shape. Try it.

And yes, it is a felony either way, but you're a lot more likely to get caught with wire clippers than a hook, if you know how to hide it. If you're worried about them checking the side pocket, put it in your sock. Even if you go to jail they'll have you take your shoes off but they don't search them, and yes I do know this from experience. You can take your socks off with the hook inside and roll them up together. Not guaranteed to work but it's better than wire clippers no matter how you look at it.

Finally, even if they do find it, how many cops do you think know what a sensormatic hook is/looks like? A retail store LP agent probably would, but LP won't be the ones patting you down.

fishmonger

03-06-2009, 11:04 AM

Whoa like i said before this is so not helpful.

To be honest if you had a decent lawyer, I would rather get caught with wire cutters than a sensormatic hook. The lawyer can BS out of the cutters because its a generic tool.

If I didn't plan on getting a lawyer, I would take my chances hiding the hook but police are trained to search and detect unusual objects. I have thought before of putting it on a key chain so it might go unnoticed if some one were caught. It is pretty hard to get caught stealing clothes though.

In my state shoplifting with a tool is a 3rd degree felony as well.

On another interesting note, I was arrested recently unrelated to shoplifting. I had a roofing razor blade in my wallet, I thought it was hidden well in between business cards packed tight. The police officer found it and claimed he didn't know what it was and went on and on about it and why i have it. While it is good to know it is not common knowledge shoplifting was its intended use, if they are being thorough they could find just about anything.

MrNatowski

03-06-2009, 12:39 PM

Fishmonger,

Yes, the police do go through your pockets and your wallet. But that doesn't mean there's no way to hide a small tool like that. If you're really that paranoid about it, you could even make a small pocket on the INSIDE of your jeans. To each his own, but if I was arrested I'd rather be caught with a sensormatic hook than a pair of wire cutters.

Just personal opinion I guess.

LadyKlepto

03-07-2009, 04:05 AM

-Do ink tags attached to supertags have anything in them to set off alarms or are they just there to scare people? If they don't do anything I'll save time and not bother to take them off.
-The alarms with the speaker...when is it that they go off? If they are improperly taken off or just if they go past the checkpoint? Would they go off if I use my hook?

PEEPLUSEM

03-08-2009, 03:32 AM

spaceman spiff

03-08-2009, 10:32 PM

my apologies VINNIPOOH and Steal_Everything. stealeverything, you just seemed to be conveniently posting after vinni and agreeing with him. and steal everything i agree with you. just being smart as well as street smart takes away almost all the risk. you are a physics major, i am in pharmacy school at a major university where i also am on scholarship to play wide receiver for my unnamed schools football team. not to toot my own horn, im just saying im smart enough to handle both, and therefore outthinking a simple, unsuspecting retail store worker is really not that difficult. which is the best tool you can have.

as far as the tools go, i mean its whatever. its whatever floats your boat, whichever you like more. ive never had a problem with taking off tags from clothes with a rubber band, and as far as it looking like a tool, you can just wear it on your wrist and no one gives it a second thought.

also, lots of retail stores around here dont tag EVERY article of clothing or merchandise in the store (this maybe be just because my home town is in a county that is consistantly in the top 25 counties for highest income per capita in america, idk) but either way, i find it is easiest to just lift things that arent tagged. expensive department stores like Von Maur, Macy's, or splaces that just sell designer items, ie sunglasses hutt, etc dont tag many of their clothes/items... in fact, ive found von maur to be quite the goldmine. my local one has no security system and none of the clothes are tagged. and instead of a security guard there is live music being played on a piano... seriously. so i just never carry around a tool, except sometimes a rubber band to pull apart a hard tag. and a shopping bag to carry stuff out in works fine as long as you look the part of someone who could afford to be shopping at that store. lol

spaceman spiff

03-09-2009, 03:15 AM

the only tags that come apart with a rubberband are the ultra gator tags.

the only stores that use ultra gator tags are cheaper stores and in low risk areas.

ive never seen macys use ultra gator tags, they all use supertags, so a little ruberband on your hand is not ganna do shit for you and a supertag.

well at both my local macy's, it is not hard to find merch not even tagged to begin with, but even if they are, you are correct, they are supertags, but again, a decently stout rubber band (obviously not a tiny little one) does the trick in less than 45 seconds if the tag isnt all the way secured, and only a little longer if it is, but usually then i just pick a different one. and this past year at a macy's on black friday SWIM got 4 north faces (165$ msrp each) and none of them even had tags on them.

im gonna make some tools for myself though cause that would just speed up that whole process.

also, another tip is to hit up outdoor malls/shopping venues. in my area there are multiple, and the nice things about these are that once youre out of the store, you are not in the building still like at a normal conventional mall. you can just go to your car right away or whatever. i wouldnt suggest it, but if you were to not even disguise the fact taht you are lifting something (ie with a larger item) that is the way to go. again, its a stupid idea, but SWIM got an xbox 360 elite this way when SWIM was not 18 yet...

PEEPLUSEM

03-10-2009, 01:22 AM

What ways do you guys lift shit at abercrombie and hollister?

usually swim just bags it in blind spot and hits up the changeroom to take off tags

do you guys got any easier ways and faster ways?

LadyKlepto

03-10-2009, 02:37 PM

Someone please explain what you guys are talking about w. rubberbands.
I just got arrested last night at macys, when I asked the d.t.'s how they got me they said they saw me but i was in the dressing rooms. she said it's monitored by same sex personnel and that there's camera's in there. I wouldnt normally believe bullshit like that b/c they might just say that to scare me but then they told me to take the bras off that I stole. They wouldnt be able to know something like that unless they were watching; most of the bra's were in my bag anyway so they had no reason to expect i had any one me. So my question is....what the hell? now the dressing rooms have cameras in the mirrors or something? I can't go to macy's for 7 yrs now and i had to pay what i stole times 5 ($500) and go to court. this is my second time being caught my 1st case i was a minor like 15 yrs old so i got a slap on the hand....damn macy's.

MrNatowski

03-10-2009, 06:57 PM

LadyKlepto, the reason they caught you was on camera when you went INTO the fitting room. Since you say you stole more than one, obviously they watched you go into the fitting room with several bras, and come out with none (or 1 or 2). They don't have cameras INSIDE the fitting rooms, but they do have cameras in the room that contains the fitting rooms, meaning they can monitor who goes in and out and what they're carrying.

.it

03-10-2009, 08:04 PM

Steal_Everything

03-13-2009, 08:41 AM

yeh, i agree with the poster above me.. you do not get greedy. i believe in most places by law you cannot have cameras in changing rooms.

That one law about not being allowed to record child porn? Something like that?

The LPs lied to you if they said they recorded you IN the changing room. They're not allowed to. What if a little kid went in there, and they recorded it? Phail.

Irukanji

03-13-2009, 03:49 PM

What about wrapping the ink tag in something before you rip it from the pin it gets held onto by? Then it would just burst into the wrapper and not on the article.

.it

03-13-2009, 08:03 PM

What about wrapping the ink tag in something before you rip it from the pin it gets held onto by? Then it would just burst into the wrapper and not on the article.

people do this with plastic wrap, and ive heard it is successful.

Republican Jesus

03-16-2009, 11:15 AM

hey guys i really need a new ipod, is there a good way to steal it from best buy or similar? are the locks on those cases easy to force open or would it be better to dress up as an employee and try to get the key?

fishmonger

03-16-2009, 11:33 AM

Spring break. I'm back though. I've chosen not to argue with the dipshits here anymore though. Not worth the effort.

Nah I don't argue either. Posting arguments with strangers is the same as no posts. Wish there was more traffic.:confused:

Steal_Everything

03-16-2009, 08:57 PM

Facepalm

03-17-2009, 12:44 AM

shazam!
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn312/methodmike44/7084766-0-large.jpg

Thanks to orinux for the original post of this cutaway

Never leave home without mine.... http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w168/mcamp39004/photo.jpg

LadyKlepto

03-18-2009, 03:04 PM

Sorry you guys are actually wrong they do have cameras inside of some of the rooms. I got to read my police report and they describe what they saw me doing while I was in there. Then when I went to court this girl told me the lady told her the same thing that she watched her inside the fitting room. And no they were not outside of the fitting room looking in either because my boyfriend was right there. I guess certain macys with crazy loss prevention teams do that. But i dont think it's legal so I'm meeting w. my lawyer tomorrow about it. ****GO HERE and READ THIS**** http://sentimentalsasquatch.blogspot.com/2009/02/truth-about-fitting-rooms.html

LadyKlepto

03-18-2009, 03:09 PM

That one law about not being allowed to record child porn? Something like that?

The LPs lied to you if they said they recorded you IN the changing room. They're not allowed to. What if a little kid went in there, and they recorded it? Phail.

Im tellin you go to google and type in Cameras in fitting rooms, this shit happens alot. I dont know how else they would have known what I had on me and described what i did when i was in there. and ive talked w other people it happened to and then theres the point they put it in my police report.

DrPepper

03-18-2009, 04:24 PM

Im tellin you go to google and type in Cameras in fitting rooms, this shit happens alot. I dont know how else they would have known what I had on me and described what i did when i was in there. and ive talked w other people it happened to and then theres the point they put it in my police report.

Hmm a little hard to believe... but I guess you never know. If it's true, that's pretty scary. Where do you live?

Steal_Everything

03-18-2009, 04:51 PM

That's a total invasion of privacy. There's no way that they should be allowed to do that. With any decent lawyer you'll get off scott-free.

DrPepper

03-18-2009, 07:11 PM

Republican Jesus

03-19-2009, 07:19 AM

You're better off getting one from car shopping or raiding peoples shit at a party.

unfortunately i want this to get back at best buy and i'm not down with stealing shit from other people

Steal_Everything

03-19-2009, 01:02 PM

unfortunately i want this to get back at best buy and i'm not down with stealing shit from other people

Ahahahhahahahahhahahahahahahahhahahaha.

Dude. If you want to cause them financial pain then just smash their windows at night. Their LP has their shit on lockdown, especially the shit like the iPods. Just give up.

LadyKlepto

03-19-2009, 10:30 PM

Nope. After some intense googling, I learned that it's totally legal in some states to have cameras in fitting rooms and bathrooms. Fortunately for me, it's not legal in New York. I suggest everyone search for their states "general business law" (or whatever) of their state. Some of you are fucked! Although, I read that if a store has cameras in these areas, they must state it somewhere- whether it be in the entrance/exit of the store, it's bathroom, or fitting room.

I found this lawyer through the internet and he told me it is legal. And I also live in New York. He told me to go to this website http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/nycodes/PEN250.45TXPEN0250.45.html
Either way I wasn't trying to go though Macy's because there is no doubt I would lose anyway. But I need a damn lawyer, the guy I went to see today charges $1,500. :facepalm:

LadyKlepto

03-21-2009, 08:51 PM

http://bored.com/games/play/73/Shoplifter.html
Fun game & if you get caught, you won't go to jail :thumbsup:

Dark Destroyer

03-23-2009, 12:03 AM

I have done it. Simply by look at some tags you can tell whether or not they have RFID tags inside of them. Another method is to simply walk close to (and perpendicular to) the sensors and if they go off, you can just say you weren't leaving.

Most stores that use tags don't have RFID tags in a majority of there products. I've heard of countless people who have bought clothes, the salesperson forgot to take the tag off, and they walked out with no alarm going off. I have NEVER heard of someone walking out with just clothing and having the alarm go off because of a tag. I'm not saying such tags don't exist, I am just saying that from personal experience, I have never seen one that has. SWIM has stolen over 30 shirts from various stores and none of the tags that SWIM cut off later at home set off the alarms on the way out. SWIM also stole these shirts from 'nicer' stores. SWIM stole them from Dillard's, Macy's, and a variety of other chains that sell such brands as Nordstrom, and Ralph Lauren. SWIM says the shirts retailed anywhere from $75 - $200. SWIM also thinks you're a dipshit that is talking out of your ass to try and sell a product that people don't really need.

Like I said, the noise that snipping a tag makes is comparable to hanging up a coat hanger. It is absolutely nothing that will raise suspicion, and if you tried it yourself you would realize that.

No, it's not. People who have expensive tools that make them feel invincible get overconfident, and that is what "gets u busted!"

Because there is ABSOLUTELY NO NEED for me to.

And without spending $60 or w.e. the fuck you're charging you can do the EXACT same thing EVERYTIME for FREE.

What makes you an expert in the field? Being a PHYSICS MAJOR at a UNIVERSITY I can tell you that a properly constructed Faraday cage WILL work 100% of the time. The trick is making sure you construct it properly.

You've offered no proof that you're a legit, smooth lifter. And you are less of a seller/provider and more of a prick that's trying to rip off the dipshits that don't know what they're doing that listen to and believe you. You also have no reasonable cause to believe that I am a "dumb ass lifter" that is "not thinking straight" and "doesn't know wtf is going on" other than your own ignorance. You're trying to discredit the information that I give through slander and lies in general, and if anyone from here on out is too stupid to realize that I'm the one that's telling the truth, and that he's a dealer just trying to make himself money, then I'm done trying to convince them. He has no reason to want to help you, and is clearly trying to profit instead of inform. I am obviously here just to inform and meet people that know as much or more than I do to share tips. I will helps the novices, and try and shy people away from dirtbags like you.

Also, I'm not VINNIPOOH. We have two completely different typing styles. He types like the fucking kidiot that he is. I type like someone that's written so many damned research papers that it is habit for me to use decent spelling, punctuation, and grammar. /rant.

dude i love your frikken rants

but vinni and you are some of the oldest and most expeirenced on ZOK
stop fighting and FUCKING CONTRIBUTE TO THE THREAD

vinni stop peddling your wares
its annoying

and S_Es idea does work
ive done this and your method
they both work, very well i might add
its your preference whether u like to walk out, or use the stealth way
personaly i just pocket/bag the items and leave
its just how u wanna do it mates

ACE_187

03-23-2009, 12:37 AM

Steal_Everything

03-23-2009, 04:18 AM

hey dark destroyer.

i dont know if you read this, but at wal-mart they said they wern't taking the headlights back now. i've been trying to think of small stuff without a security tag that i could take and return for credit. do you think they'll still take cd's back?

Multivitamins? I remember reading a story of someone who used to do that. Idk if it works or not; it's just something I remember reading about a year ago.

Dark Destroyer

03-23-2009, 02:29 PM

hey dark destroyer.

i dont know if you read this, but at wal-mart they said they wern't taking the headlights back now. i've been trying to think of small stuff without a security tag that i could take and return for credit. do you think they'll still take cd's back?

they should.
i took some back, told em i got it as a gift, and they gave me credit.
dk how it is where u live but thats how i got my Very extensive collection....that and 'aquireing' them with a few freinds...

and man u havent been on the forums in so long i figured u got arrested lol
or worse...

ACE_187

03-24-2009, 12:47 AM

steal everything, it may just be this store. i dont know if different wal-marts have different return policies. maybe this one just had alot of people stealing the same things. i've stolen those $20 multi vitamins before, and returned them but they may have changed their policy since then.

DD, i feel like cd's would be good, because most people are dumb, and never steal them without taking them out of the case. i still have never seen a cd with a security tag on the inside.

but i'm fine. i do stuff, but i dont do it as often as you :D i remember you saying a good week for you is getting at least $1000 worth of stuff. i havn't even tried to do that. i havn't even went on shoplifting outings 2 days in a row. haha thats pretty bad. i'm too lazy to steal sometimes :(

CrotchxRocket

03-26-2009, 09:26 PM

Alright lets get this thread going... I just joined and have read this stuff.
What would you recommend for a good tool to swipe clothing. I have a couple of options here: the hook from a guy for like $43, buying a big magnet, or wire cutters?? Which would be most effective and relatively cheap?
The only problem I have with the hook is that it does not work at some stores, they simply dont have that type of sensor. There is no hole to insert in(haha).
Next, why dont some people on here start posting advice for stores in particular? Whats easy or not, and where?

.it

03-27-2009, 12:19 AM

Steal_Everything

03-27-2009, 02:56 AM

maskedwolfpup

03-27-2009, 05:43 AM

some walmarts swiping the cameras have become difficult, they put a big clear box over them now, no more cut and dump into a bag anymore

Steal_Everything

03-27-2009, 03:53 PM

some walmarts swiping the cameras have become difficult, they put a big clear box over them now, no more cut and dump into a bag anymore

Like this? https://www2.corecommerce.com/~americanthef703/uploads/avm466be.jpg

If it's that, you can remove the case with an Alpha Security S3 Handkey, or make one for your own. There are links in this thread.

5024L

03-27-2009, 07:39 PM

Does anyone know how to remove the tags that are tied on things like routers?

spaceman spiff

03-28-2009, 12:06 AM

ah fuck. sorry ive been gone. not that anyone noticed or cared. i got in a little trouble and was away from my computer. haha. but seriously, its not what you would think. but not important. about cameras in dressing rooms? yeah, they can do that. which is complete bull shit. but they cant in my state. woot.

and i agree about the walmart and target talk... some of those stores its like fucking robbing a bank. its just dumb and has a very high risk. and other stores (sometimes within 10 or 15 minutes of each other) its free for the taking. like they are giving shit away. haha. but dont get cocky. even with the simplest of stores to rip off. employees will start recognizing you. its happened to me, just be smart enough to figure out if youre getting double takes from the employees. ive never gotten caught at stores i hit all the time cause im just smart enough to know when they are finally wising up.

and this is starting to be the season for outdoor malls and shopping centers! fuck yes. three words for you: outlet shopping centers. easy as shit guys. they dont even tag the shit half the time and even if they do its still HELLA loose security. thats where i make my money, is places like that. cause i can get bulk and value. most other stuff (except electronics) i just get for my own use.

also, SWIM stole a laptop from someones unlocked car at like 4am the other day, but the god damned thing is password protected. anyone have any experience with hacking the login page? (for the record SWIM disabled the internet on it so the serial number cant be traced.)

Buku

03-28-2009, 01:05 AM

also, SWIM stole a laptop from someones unlocked car at like 4am the other day, but the god damned thing is password protected. anyone have any experience with hacking the login page? (for the record SWIM disabled the internet on it so the serial number cant be traced.)

ophcrack live CD or Pcloginnow are the ones I've seen recommended the most IIRC. You'll need access to a computer with a burner. It's a useful thing to have in case you ever "find" a laptop.

It'd be pretty interesting if someone made something like a faraday cage in order to block the GPS and triangulation thing some laptops have. Hmm, probably wouldn't be worth the effort though, unless you're stealing laptops for the info on them(businesses, high level probably).

5024L

03-28-2009, 02:08 AM

So does anyone know how to remove web tags?

Steal_Everything

03-28-2009, 10:34 AM

So does anyone know how to remove web tags?

Does anyone know how to remove the tags that are tied on things like routers?

You can remove spider wraps with an Alpha Security S3 Handkey, or make one on your own. There are links in this thread.

CrotchxRocket

03-28-2009, 04:59 PM

You've read all the posts about the benefits of both, yet you still ask? All that needs to be said has been said. GTFO troll.

Stores vary from city to city. Some wal marts may have tight security, some lax. It depends where you are.

First off, I hate ignorant fools like you. Second, why dont you point me to those posts. Oh wait, there is no direct or indirect comparison of the two, or three, items.
Finally, will someone who is not a complete jack ass communicate their preference of tools, and include why?
Thanks!

a little bird

03-28-2009, 05:37 PM

k.. preference: use the same detachers the stores use. the original - authentic ones!

why? simple! because they work the best - every time. without any problems. buy it once and it will last forever.

thats y

Steal_Everything

03-28-2009, 08:02 PM

First off, I hate ignorant fools like you. Second, why dont you point me to those posts. Oh wait, there is no direct or indirect comparison of the two, or three, items.
Finally, will someone who is not a complete jack ass communicate their preference of tools, and include why?
Thanks!

I'm ignorant? Last time I checked, I'm the one with information that you don't have. If you bothered to read the thread you would CLEARLY see that I am against spending the money to buy the 'official' tools when you can just make your own. But no, I'm a 'complete jack ass' for not spoon feeding you every piece of information that is ALREADY IN THE THREAD. My preference of tools and why is clearly stated in a multitude of posts you retarded-ass motherfucker. Don't be so butthurt that I called you out on your laziness/

Dark Destroyer

03-29-2009, 05:05 PM

unfortunately i want this to get back at best buy and i'm not down with stealing shit from other people
what kind of thief are you?

Alright lets get this thread going... I just joined and have read this stuff.
What would you recommend for a good tool to swipe clothing. I have a couple of options here: the hook from a guy for like $43, buying a big magnet, or wire cutters?? Which would be most effective and relatively cheap?
The only problem I have with the hook is that it does not work at some stores, they simply dont have that type of sensor. There is no hole to insert in(haha).
Next, why dont some people on here start posting advice for stores in particular? Whats easy or not, and where?
dude its not cheap but it works better than goddamn wire cutters
i use a Leatherman Core multi-tool...that i 'aquired' from one of my many exploits
youre gonna get caught in the end
not if hes good enough
practice makes perfect, and practicing the trade is always fun :D
I'm ignorant? Last time I checked, I'm the one with information that you don't have. If you bothered to read the thread you would CLEARLY see that I am against spending the money to buy the 'official' tools when you can just make your own. But no, I'm a 'complete jack ass' for not spoon feeding you every piece of information that is ALREADY IN THE THREAD. My preference of tools and why is clearly stated in a multitude of posts you retarded-ass motherfucker. Don't be so butthurt that I called you out on your laziness/

my freind you are far from ignorant....the one who said this hasnt full read, or comprehended, this ENTIRE thread....
he is the ignorant one....

were just the ones who know what weve done but refuse to brag and tell each others about it
i will if anyone asks but i have a strict dont ask dont tell policy ;)
same with women

fishmonger

03-30-2009, 06:36 AM

.it

03-30-2009, 07:05 AM

has anyone ever attempted to try to return multiple of one item (in this case, dewalt batteries) new unopened to a lowes/home depot with no receipt?

I wouldn't be worried at all if it was just one, but I want to get as much as possbile on a gift card with one trip, since they require a valid id.

it should be fine, they wont question you, just say you needed a back up. or your brother uses the same kind of batteries. but they will probably not ask.

maskedwolfpup

03-31-2009, 02:53 AM

Like this? https://www2.corecommerce.com/~americanthef703/uploads/avm466be.jpg

If it's that, you can remove the case with an Alpha Security S3 Handkey, or make one for your own. There are links in this thread.

sorry, was tired when I wrote that. the ones here are keeping the cameras in a locked case below the display cameras with bars over them. the display cameras is what I am talking about, they put a clear box over the entire thing and it has locked doors on it. sorry I was vague about it, just passing along info if people do the cut and dump on display models

KeepOnTruckin

04-01-2009, 03:26 AM

Here is the classic Stealing Super Target by Xap. Note that some of the things mentioned are out of date and have changed.

I have 2 more files by Dr. Santa on the same subject as well as the 2006 Target AP Directives (Target Security policies)
_______________________

***Stealing SuperTarget: How to Hit the Bullseye***

By: Xap
First Created Industriously on: 11/28/2004

Between the Hours of: Midnight and 8 AM

Boring but Necessary Disclaimer:
The following document is purely for informational and entertainment purposes, and the sole responsibility for any illegal actions lies with the reader. The author is in no way responsible for the mistakes the amateurs will make while potentially
attempting to perform things described herein. Read at your own risk.

Oh - and if you do get caught, tell 'em Xap (pronounced "zap") sent ya.
They won't know me, but they'll probably think the name is clever.

************************************************** *********

So, you've decided to join the Five-Finger discount club offered by so many
fine retailers today. The most popular store chain around where I live
seems to be Target and SuperTarget. I mean, great prices and none of the
evil and filth you find at Wal-Mart, right? And look at all the incredibly
expensive goods your sticky little fingers just can't wait to shove in your
pockets. . .but wait. . .what's going to happen if someone who works for the
store catches you stealing? How can you get away with it?

To allay the fears of many readers that this is going to be just another
stupid file written by an acnefied teen h4ck3r. . .(sorry, "cracker", I
don't believe the media stereotypes either) everything written here is
absolutely true Target procedure, written by someone who spent a long time
working in the heart of their security department. It is all up to date as
of today, but who knows what the future holds, right? The best I can tell
you is, if you don't believe me, go apply for a job there yourself and find
out. They hire 18 and above for the security dept. And good news - Target
policy actually has more rules *preventing* their security from being able
to stop you than the other way around. The odds are highly stacked in favor
of thieves who are well-informed, as you are about to be. Gods bless
wrongful-arrest lawsuits and the fear they have inspired in Corporate
America. Reap, my friends! Reap!

So why give them up when I used to be their loyal watchdog? Eh. They
never knew the reason I was so good at catching thieves was because I used
to be one myself. Talk about reverting to type now, huh? I actually
started writing this as a book to try to publish with an alternative
company, but didn't want to deprive the young and bold but short of pocket
money from this valued information. In the spirit of sharing knowledge for
the sake of everyone's betterment, I'm offering this up for free, and just
hope no one will alter it in any way or try to claim it as their own. So,
fly free, my beautiful tutorial! Enlighten the masses!

Anyways, enough intro, on to the meat. I'll take you through all of
Target's procedures, physical security, everything, and the ways you can go
about circumventing and defeating all of them to the best of your ability.
By the way - I'll use the terms Target and SuperTarget interchangeably.
The only difference between the two is that SuperTargets are newer, tend to
have better equipment, and have a grocery section.
Onward!

********** The People **********

The first line of defense in any Target is its Asset Protection Department,
or "AP" for short. You may have heard someone in the store calling "AP"
over the radios all employees carry. This is the security department,
usually called loss prevention at other stores. Every AP dept. has a few
levels of employees. The bottom rung is the Target Protection Specialist,
or TPS. These are the men and women in tan shirts and black pants, carrying
handcuffs and radios on their belts. They patrol the stores, and by policy
are supposed to spend most of their time at the front register lanes unless
something else requires their attention. The main portion of their job is
watching people checking out to see if any items have been left in the cart
"by accident", and politely reminding them to pay for it. TPS's get quota'd
on these items, so it's important they catch as many as possible. They
watch the doors for suspicious looking people coming in, and assist with any
emergencies, apprehensions, or anything else that may come up. But, due to
their lack of rank, *TPS's cannot arrest anyone on their own*!

I repeat, a TPS cannot stop you from leaving the store with stolen goods. They can
scare the crap out of you, and check your receipts, and if they're feeling
bold they can even request the stolen merchandise back. (That's against
Target policy, though. No one is *ever* supposed to be accused of stealing.
It hurts customers' feelings.)

Next up the ladder are the Asset Protection Specialists, or APS's. These
are the undercovers of the store, and believe me when I say that these folks
are on the ball. Anyone not dedicated to their job won't last very long in
this line of work. They patrol the store in plain clothes, carrying a
hidden walkie-talkie (usually in a purse for the ladies, or in a pocket or
clipped to the back of the pants for guys, with the shirt covering it).
They might sit in the office and watch cameras instead, but they're
encouraged to stay on the floor. A good way to Spot-the-APS is to look for
someone dashing around to endcaps, ducking down and then moving quickly away
to act nonchalant. Or just look to see if the rectangle-shape of the radio
is poking through the back of their shirt where it's hidden. (P.S. - An
endcap is just the Target term for the end of an aisle. All of Target's
endcaps are perforated, partly for hanging hooks, but mostly so AP can hide
and look through the holes to watch you steal. It's very hard to see
someone hiding behind the endcaps, so be careful and listen closely for
shifting and breathing.) APS's can arrest people all on their own, with or
without backup, although if they're worried you might fight they will have a
TPS, another APS, or enthusiastic regular employees ready to jump on you,
too. Remember, an APS doesn't have to win the fight with you. They just
have to slow you down long enough for everyone else to catch up. However,
if you physically resist they are legally allowed to drop you, using minimal
violence of course, and cuff you.

The manager of the AP dept is called an Asset Protection Team Leader, or
APTL. They usually spend more time researching employee theft than
patrolling the floor, looking over cash register reports and so on. Many
APTL's will not spend a lot of time in their personal store, traveling
around to assist at other stores and leaving the APS's in charge. They
essentially have the same powers as an APS, they're just way more
experienced at it. Above them are the District and Regional APTL's, so on
up the chain. These bigwigs usually never go to a store unless there's some
major booster making the rounds and they're trying to set a trap for them.
They're kind of like Target's personal shoplifter SWAT team, but without the
guns or cool outfits.

Something to keep in mind: every other employee in the store really wants
to be in AP. AP is the coolest job in the store to have, and its members
are constantly getting asked by regular employees if they can apply. What
this means for you is that every other employee in the store is eager to
prove that they can catch thieves too, so don't relax just because they're
wearing red and khaki. Regular employees will go out of their way to alert
AP to your presence and follow you around. However, if the red-shirts try
to stop you leaving the store, breeze on by. They have no legal powers, and
cannot arrest you.

********** The Electronics **********

Okay, on to the electronic security. You've no doubt noticed the hundreds
of black plastic camera domes mounted in the ceiling of your local Target.
Well, just as you suspected, quite a few of these are fake. But several
dozen of them are not. Every Target store has a "camera placement plan"
they follow, which may vary slightly from store to store, but generally
follows similar guidelines. Most real cameras will be placed over
high-theft item areas, such as Electronic Goods, the Pharmacy, Automotive,
and so on. There is literally a camera mounted over every single register
in the store, pointing down to watch transactions. There are *no* cameras
in the Grocery section of SuperTargets (but there are fake domes). The
closer you are to the outer wall of the Grocery, the farther you are from
any real cameras. Along the back wall of most stores is the Domestics and
Furniture sections. . .these usually have no real cameras, either, although
fake domes are spaced every other aisle. And, of course, it is illegal for
Target to place cameras in the bathroom, or near enough to the open-ceiling
dressing rooms to see in.

Like I said, it may vary between stores, but here are typically where all
the movable, zoomable, real cameras are:
- Over the Electronics checkout
- One at each end of the front lane registers
- Near the Automotive section (back corner of the store)
- If the store has two sets of doors (SuperTargets), there will be one
above each of the front corners of the building, for scanning the parking
lots
- One at the back of the building, near the rear loading docks
- Usually in the middle of the Clothing sections, but far enough away from
the dressing rooms
- Possibly right over the Pharmacy section, or nearby
- Right near the Guest Service desk, usually able to see the Portrait
Studio too in SuperTargets
- Above the wall-rack that divides the Men's and Women's Clothing sections

Also, the fixed, non-movable (and often black and white) cameras are
usually mounted:
- Near razors and razor blades
- Near any medicines commonly stolen by junkies
- Pointing at an angle at the incoming and outgoing doors, to catch face
shots of thieves as they enter or exit. After my term of employment, they
seem to have installed a small dome right at the exit doors themselves, at
about head height. I do not know if this is real or not, but probably is,
as face shots were a major concern, and the higher cameras would usually
only give fuzzy pictures at best.
- Over various aisles near the Electronics section, with computers, games,
stereos, etc.
- Over auto radar detectors
- Over GPS units in the camping section
- *Definitely* over every single register, even in the Deli, Bakery,
Starbucks and Pharmacy
- Over the jewelry counter

A lot of the real ones have been in use for a long time, and have larger
plastic domes. The newer fake ones are smaller, but the older, bigger ones
don't get taken out and replaced to match because who wants the hassle,
right? Don't go strictly by this, because you never know. But it's a good
guideline.

All the cameras are routed back to the AP Office, which is always somewhere
near the front of the store. At Targets, it's generally right next to the
Guest Service desk, behind an "Employees Only" door with a peephole in it.
At SuperTargets, it will be through some swinging doors at the front, and
then probably right there in a hallway, same kind of door with the peephole.

The doors are almost always locked, even when people are inside. Inside,
there will be a room set up with several monitors, usually about 6 to 10,
which are all connected through multiplexers to VCRs. On one wall will be
shelves and shelves full of tapes, usually labeled something like, "1A, 1B,
1C, 1D, 2A, 2B. . ." and so on. The number is usually the date of whichever
month you're in. The tapes get reused every month, so on the first the "1"
set is used again, and so on. This means unless they saved footage of you,
if you didn't attract any camera attention before, next month that tape will
have been recorded over. The A, B, C, D means the shift the tape was used
for, morning, afternoon, evening and overnight. And a tape log on a
clipboard is kept in the office to tell which tapes were used when, and what
time they started and finished.

So anyways, an AP can sit at the monitors and control the cameras using an
old-style joystick switch, or a more modern sort of trackball. They can
punch up any camera in the store on any monitor, although usually only about
nine or ten will be able to move. The rest are fixed, and are most likely
being recorded on a three-second skip. This means only every third second
gets recorded (to save tape space), which aids thieves since it makes it
hard to review and see quick motions. Sometimes thieves appear on an aisle,
and a moment later seem to just vanish without doing anything. Of course,
watching the cameras in real-time doesn't have the three-second skip. But
if they have to go back and watch the tape again to see if you really did do
what they thought you did, they have to worry about missing it if you moved
too fast.

The cameras they *can* move are top notch. They can often zoom in so close
that they can read information right off your driver's license all the way
from the ceiling. (If it's held still.) One of the big things AP has to
get is face shots. They depend on being able to say, Yep, that's the guy.
I've got his face on camera right here. So APs become very good at tracking
moving people and objects, and at switching quickly to other cameras for a
better view. If you spend too much time wandering in a spot where there are
no good cameras, or no cameras at all, they'll have to deploy from the
office and watch you on foot. This can be good for you, as it heightens the
chances that they'll miss something important. However, an APS can come out
and follow you while a TPS watches you on camera. If the TPS sees you do
something, and the APS doesn't, APSs are *not* supposed to accept this as
proof, but many often do. Of course, it's the APSs legal fault if the TPS
was wrong.

One of the biggest ways to get caught easily is to *look directly at the
cameras*. I know this sounds stupid, and like common sense, but you would
not believe how many nervous amateurs will glance repeatedly, or just boldly
stare at the dome right above them, giving AP a perfect chance for a face
shot and clear view of whatever they're stealing. Keep your eyes down, boy.

Just assume the camera is real, and that you should be hiding your hand
movements anyways. (Except in Grocery, heh.) If you want to scope out a
camera, do it from a long way off, and do not tilt your head or eyes up.
Use your peripherals. And trust me - you *cannot* see through the domes to
tell if it's pointed at you. They're double-layered to prevent this. And
an upturned face is *very* easy to see in a camera, even on one of the
smaller monitors, and will instantly attract attention.

Recently Target began outfitting all its stores with a system called
"Loronix", which operates on digital recording in a computer instead of
tapes. It's a big time-saver for AP, because they can just punch in a time,
date and camera, and the footage will come up instantly, instead of having
to hunt and peck through hundreds of tapes. Most of the cameras hooked up
to it are fixed cameras, though, and still on the three-second skip. All of
the register cameras will be on Loronix. They can also save the little
movie files to disk, and give these disks to the police as evidence,
playable on any computer.

Also, Target camera monitors can be quickly punched up to display whatever
current transaction is occurring at a certain register, *as the employee is
ringing up the items*, to see if you're price-tag-switching or
short-changing the cashier. Be wary.

We'll touch back on cameras with the procedures. . .for now, on to the EAS
tags!
Every Target store has a set of EAS stands at the front doors, and all
valuable merchandise (according to weekly store plans) is tagged with EAS
stickers. These are square, white stickers with bar codes printed across
them, which you've probably seen before. (The bar code is to help guests
believe it's just for price scanning, not that Target doesn't trust them.)
Just pick up a popular CD or DVD at Target, and one will probably be stuck
to the back. They're tiny antennas of a sort (and forgive me if I don't
know the electronics here - please, no techno-geniuses flaming me for
mis-assuming how these work) that will trigger the EAS stand by radio
frequencies. The stands constantly generate them, and the sticker passing
through will interrupt them, setting off the alarm. (Coincidentally, the
numbers printed on the sticker barcode are the actual frequency they're
working on.) When items are "deactivated" at checkout, they pass the
sticker over a CheckPoint pad that shuts them off. There is one of these
pads below the counter of almost every register, so if you can manage to
palm an item across it without employees noticing, you can deactivate the
sticker.

Supposedly, according to the online company tech specs, the
Checkpoints are supposed to work up to around a foot or so above the actual
pad. Sometimes crooked AP will swipe whole rolls of these stickers across
the deactivator pad, rendering them useless before they're placed on
products. A lot of other things set off the stands too - cell phones,
electronic keycards, anything that might interfere with the frequency. You
might even consider stealing a sticker and hiding it inside your wallet,
cell phone, etc. just so if there's a TPS at the front checking receipts,
you can wave your wallet or phone through and show that it's the culprit,
not the DVD in your pants with the sticker removed. TPS's can not
thoroughly search you, and if you set off the alarm and just keep on
walking, unless an APS was about to arrest you anyways, a TPS can shout all
they want but not stop you.

These stickers can be peeled off pretty easily, and you can recognize them
also by the pink underside with the square-loop-whirl of metal that makes
the antenna. Of course, AP watches for people picking at packages and
stickers, so hide your motion as much as you can, or just get rid of the
package entirely during a moment you're out of camera view. And be careful
- sometimes AP hides the stickers loose *inside* boxes, or they come
pre-packaged that way, so you don't even know one's in there. The new rolls
of stickers are kept locked up in the AP office until about once a week,
when someone will go sticker all the new items on the shelves.

Supposedly thieves have tried shielding the insides of backpacks with
aluminum foil to prevent the tags from setting off the stands, but I can't
tell you if this works for real or not. You might experiment by stealing
just a sticker, taking it home, wrapping it in aluminum foil and hiding it
inside your shoe or underwear or somewhere else not obvious, then going back
to see if it sets off the alarm. If not, cool, break out that Reynold's
Wrap and load up, man.

Of lesser note in AP electronics is the AP computer, which keeps e-mail
contact on a private intranet between all the stores, and houses files on
every attempted and successful criminal act caught in the store. If any AP
members witness suspicious activity, they will record their findings after
the fact in the computer, and submit this info by e-mail to all the other
local stores, warning them of potential thieves. (They also call a few
local stores by phone if they scare off a thief and think they may be
heading to another one nearby.) In these files go as much physical
description as possible (age, weight, race, clothing), what the thief did,
the make/model and license plate of a car if obtained, and whether or not
they have good camera footage and face shots.

If you're really desperate and need to steal whatever it is that day, drive
about an hour away and find another one. Typically they only call stores within
a few miles, or within the same general city. The farther you go, the less
chance they've been warned. They also may store digital camera mug shots of arrested thieves in
the computer (some less advanced stores still have Polaroids). Despite what
a dumb cop may bold-face-lie to you, Target does *not* have facial
recognition software in their cameras. Your picture is just for future
reference, and the cameras will not track you by recognizing your picture.
I actually had a cop tell a guy this once, and I was so disgusted I almost
told the thief the truth instead. I mean, really. The APTL also uses the
computer to track employee theft patterns and register shortages.

Also, to touch briefly on communications - APs keep in touch with each
other by radio, and occasionally phone. AP office numbers are almost always
a 209, or 3209 extension inside the building. Every store employee has a
walkie talkie with two channels on it. Channel One is for general calls and
quick conversations, and Channel Two is for more private talk when employees
need to explain something in detail and don't want to block out One for
everyone else. Only on AP walkie talkies is a third channel, private for AP
use. Frequently if an employee spots a potential crime in progress, you may
hear the radios crackle, "AP, go to two please, AP, go to two". Once on
Channel Two, the employee may relate what they are seeing to the responding
AP member. In theory, they try to be private, but other dumb employees will
also switch to Two, wanting to listen to the action. This helps thieves who
might overhear the eavesdropping employee, and realize they're the ones
being talked about.

If a TPS sees something happening and wants to contact their APS, they will
call "AP, go to three, please, AP, go to three", or the name of the person,
i.e. "Bob, go to three please". If you ever hear the call to go to three,
think twice about what you're doing, because you may have been spotted. If
the APS is out on the floor and following someone, they leave their radio on
Three, so no normal store announcements will come out of it. If a TPS wants
to reach them then, they will go to Three on their own radio, blow gently
for a moment, and wait for the APS to respond. On the APS end, it produces
a soft static crackle, and if they can, the APS will get alone and call
back. Frequently they can't because it would alert someone they're already
following. A lot of times the TPS blows too hard, so if you're on an aisle
and think you're alone, and you suddenly hear a crackling/blowing noise
coming from an endcap, drop what you're doing and leave. You're probably
already screwed.

Some stores try to be clever and use other code names for AP, like
"Hardware 4" or Mr. Something-or-other, to keep from alerting thieves that
anything's wrong.

All Target stores also have emergency codes that go over the radio and
store speaker system. These are Red, Green and Yellow. Red is for fires,
Green is for medical emergencies, and Yellow is for parents who've lost
their children. Codes Red and Green will be announced three times in
succession, with a location of where employees should respond to. Yellow
causes all employees to stop, man every door in the store, and watch for
potential kidnappers, while the other employees quickly search the store for
the lost child. (A child found without a parent is not a Code Yellow, the
store will just page the parents' name over the announcer.) These codes are
useful for opportunity thieves, because unless a violent crime is about to
happen, AP is required to respond to safety issues before theft ones. A lot
of thieves will have a friend cause a fake "accident" on one side of the
store to draw AP away from the side they're about to steal on. Of course,
there may be enough AP members in-store to go around that day, so don't
count on them all being away if they already know you're trying to steal.
It's best if they have no idea you were about to do anything. Hang out in a
totally different area, someplace harmless, like Office supplies. It's
right next to Electronics, usually, so if you suddenly hear "Code Green,
Grocery" over the intercom, you can instantly grab your stuff from
Electronics and head out the door. This works best at SuperTargets, as the
Electronics section is always right in front of the Blue Doors, while
Grocery is all the way down the other side at the Green doors.

(P.S. They're called the Blue and Green doors because that's what color
they're painted on *all* SuperTargets.)

And if you do decide to ever work with an accomplice - come in separate
cars. Don't walk into the store together and then split up. AP will start
watching you. And if you do the whole "accident" gag, please make sure it's
plausible. The store will try to get you to show personal information for
an accident report, in case you try to sue later and lie about how badly you
were hurt. You can refuse to stay for this. Also - don't make your
accident *so* bad that they immediately call an ambulance. You don't want
to have to pay a few hundred in hospital bills just because you're a method
actor, and your friend wanted a $20 DVD. The best course is probably to
fake a fainting spell, and let an employee "wake" you back up. Stay out
long enough to hear the Code Green being called, slowly wake up when the
crowd arrives, and assure everyone you're okay, just a little dizzy, could I
please have some water, but no, I don't think anything is seriously wrong.
No, no ambulances. :)

One more thing on communications - if you're trying something thieve-y at
the registers, and your cashier suddenly gets a call on their phone, they've
probably been warned you're up to something. AP does this all the time. If
you back out and go to another register and *they* get a call? Leave. Just
go. You're probably not going to make it out of the store with whatever
you're trying.

********** On With The Show ***********

Now down to brass tacks. What do you do when you want to steal from
Target? How do you get away with it?

It starts all the way out in the parking lot, when you first arrive. If
you can, come to the store on foot. Having a car really only gives them
another way to track you, by your license plate. Second to that, park in
another lot nearby and walk over, out of view of the Target. Lastly, park
as far back as you can in the Target lot, but not so far that there are
absolutely no other cars within 50 feet of you. The farther away you are,
though, the harder it is for them to get your plate when you're leaving in a
hurry. The cameras do zoom, but over distance the plate will fuzz out, and
it's hard to track a rapidly moving vehicle. Come in to the store at a
normal, casual walking pace, paying no attention to other people around you,
cameras, anything but being a normal shopper. Way too many thieves come in
fast, hoping to escape notice and be out before anyone knows they were
there, but more often this attracts attention instead.

When you first walk in the store, pay no attention to any tan-uniformed
people you see. The TPSs should not frighten innocent people, and will not
pay attention to you if you don't seem to notice them. Do *not* try to be
clever and glance out of the corner of your eye at them. This is more
suspicious then just giving them a polite smile and walking past.

AP personnel are programmed to watch for behaviors, not stereotypes.
(Seriously - despite what thieves may think, they *don't care* that you're
black, or young, or have three pounds of metal in your face. They saw you
glancing at cameras and opening that package, you dope. *That's* why they
arrested you.) Of course, if you're dressed all raggedy and are obviously
in need of a fix, they're probably going to watch you anyways. It helps to
be neatly dressed, obviously well-behaved (Goofus all you want at home, but
be Gallant in the store), and to be with another person. Single males who
walk in quickly, take a handbasket and go straight to a section or float
around a general area without actually *shopping* are instantly watched.
Having a shopping cart means you're planning to spend more time in the
store. Having a cart and your girlfriend with you means you're probably not
thinking about stealing.

If you really want to mess them up? Spend a half hour, or a whole hour,
slowly going up and down the aisles in Grocery and doing a full cart of
shopping. They'll give up, if they suspected you at all. Go and get that
CD you wanted as an afterthought, pull up to a front lane full of people,
pick up the CD, abandon your cart, and walk right out the front doors. (Try
to go to a door without a TPS guarding it, of course.) It takes time, but
they'll never see it coming. And it's not like *you* have to reshelve all
that stuff.

Do *not* load up your cart full of expensive stuff no one in their right
mind would buy all at once. Even non-AP employees will know to call you in
if they see a cart like that. Too many thieves will stack DVD players in a
cart, and then cruise up and down the front aisles, trying to see which door
is unguarded. This only gives AP more time to spot you, and a TPS *can*
stop you at the door if they clearly saw you walk right past the registers
without paying for a cart full of stuff. If you don't have a receipt, they
can hold you there until you either abandon the cart and leave, or go back
to pay. Don't try the "oh, me, I can't find this darn receipt in my big ol'
purse" thing. If you leave the cart and walk quickly out, the TPS will not
stop you. They do not care, they have the merchandise. You get away to
steal another day. Also, for a TPS, a big cart full of expensive stuff that
they prevented from being stolen is a *big* bonus in their quotas. They
don't get extra pay, but it's major kudos for stopping a high theft amount.
They will still put a report in the computer, and probably try to find tape
of you and record your car as you drive away, but they will never stop you
from leaving empty-handed.

Okay, so you've found a smaller item that you want, say a DVD. Browse
around first. Do not walk straight in, grab the one you want, and head for
the back of the store. Look through several, even read the back of the one
you want, put it back, look at another, check how much money you have in
your wallet, then slowly appear to decide on your target. This goes for
most other items, too. If you can, have a basket full of other items, too,
that you appeared to really shop for. Don't just toss random stuff in your
cart as props. Honestly shop, like you normally would. Wait until you're
shopping through an empty part of the store, and either remove the sticker
or open the package as quickly and quietly as you can. If you know there's
a camera dome nearby, keep your body hunched over the item, your back to the
dome, and move your arms as little as possible. It's all in the hands now.
A long range camera might still see you from far away, so keep your body as
close to the shelf as possible, too. Some thieves will reach back in
between other boxes on a shelf and open the wrapper back there, so no
cameras can see what they're doing (although they will probably still see
that DVD coming back out and going in your pocket). If someone suddenly
comes on to the aisle, don't freeze, don't look, just let go and walk away.
Continue shopping if you like, but remember, they will *never*, ever arrest
you for attempted theft. You have to actually leave the store with items on
you to be arrested. It's a universal law of shoplifting.

A good place to go for opening packages might be the middle of the clothing
section. . .the racks are just below head height, so anyone sneaking up on
you will make themselves very conspicuous if they have to start ducking and
crouching. If you hold the item in between two shirts hanging on a display,
it will make it almost impossible for the cameras to see what you're doing
(and be wary, they also do sometimes put moving cameras in the Clothing
section).

Say you do everything right, no one shows up. . .put the item somewhere it
won't leave a visible bulge under your clothes. Light jackets with interior
pockets sewn in them are great for this. Even if your jacket doesn't have
one, just get a piece of matching-color cloth in a big square, and sew three
sides of it to the inside of your jacket liner, under your arm, to make a
shoplifting pocket. If your jacket has a lining, you could even just make a
wide horizontal slit and drop things into it. This is great when you have
something in hand, because you can lean over with the other hand and pretend
to be getting something off a low shelf, which causes that side of your
jacket to hang down, and your stealing hand slips the item smoothly into
your jacket, while you still appear to only be browsing. This is better
done with leather jackets and things that won't show an outline of the item
easily. I used to shoplift right in front of cameras in my younger days by
taking stuff to a magazine section, turning my back to the camera and
leaning sideways against the shelf. My outer hand would be holding up a
magazine to read while my shelf-side hand would be opening the package. My
body, to the camera, did not appear to be moving at all, because I only
moved my hand and not my arm. I would then smoothly slip the item into a
secret pocket in my jacket, and continue reading, folding the package very
small and hiding it behind the other magazines on the upper racks when I
picked up a different one to "read". Of course, the magazine section in
Target has several cameras nearby, since it's right in Electronics, so you
may have to find somewhere else to lean.

What if it's warmer weather, and you can't wear a jacket? Target AP will
watch for non-seasonal clothing, i.e. people wearing too many layers in
blazing heat, or not wearing a jacket at all in the winter. A very common
(and surprisingly easy to get away with) theft is to walk in without a
jacket, take one of the $100+ leather ones, slip it on, and walk right back
out. Target will often put EAS stickers in their jackets, but it is almost
always midway up the inside of the sleeve, probably the left one. Feel
inside the sleeve for something square and hard, peel it out, wad it up,
throw it away, and you can walk out without any alarm. If you're trying to
steal in shorts and a t-shirt during the summer, it becomes trickier to hide
things under your clothes. For guys and girls, try to slip things down the
front of your underwear. I know it feels weird, and try not to walk funny,
but it's the only place anything more than a few inches across will probably
not show up. Don't just put it in your pants - it'll go straight down the
leg and fall out. You may even want to sew a special pocket inside there,
just for shoplifting. Some thieves will put on a pair of baggy exercise
pants underneath their real pants, and strap them off above the knee with
rubber bands or string to things can be dropped down the pants safely and
won't fall out. A boxer short version of this can be made for summer days.
Just put on your boxers, tie them off near the end around your thigh, and
put on your real shorts over them. And a note for you schoolkids: backpacks
and bags are not a good idea (even foil-lined ones for you experimenters).
Any kind of bag will stand out and you will be watched until you leave the
store. Ladies who carry purses are lucky. . .it's often very difficult for
AP to establish that a lady actually put something in her purse, especially
if her back was to the camera.

A sure-fire way to guarantee messing up AP's strategy at any time is to
duck into a bathroom or the dressing rooms in Clothing. Remember - you can
cross the registers to the bathrooms at the front with stuff inside your
clothing, because *it's not theft until you leave the store*. Literally.
If AP sees you heading that way, they may send a TPS to tell people the
restroom is closed, and force you back into the store. There is also a
restroom at the Pharmacy, though, and chances are they won't beat you there
first. If you do get in, though, head for a stall and stay there for a few
minutes. A TPS or APS may follow you in, pretend to use the restroom, or
probably just wash their hands (so they can immediately follow you back
out). The restroom is not a good idea if you have a package you want to
open, just if you've already got something hidden. Open it on the floor,
hide it, go to the bathroom. Too many times APs will break the rules, and
follow you in to the bathroom. Then they will pretend to leave by opening
the door and letting it shut, waiting silently. You, being previously
unaware, would then proceed to loudly open your package, thinking you're
alone, at which point the AP will sneak over to the stall, whip the door
open and tell you to give it up and get the hell out of their store. A good
hard yank will pop open a restroom stall, and they don't care if your pants
are down. This is true even if you're a little kid, because children will
almost always take toys and stuff to the bathrooms and think they're safe in
there.

Of course, if they arrest you, you know now Target policy and can
claim that they made illegal surveillance of you while in a private area.
Under normal circumstances, if an AP is following all the rules, they will
wait until you come out, send in someone to check for the stolen items you
may have dumped or for empty packages in the toilets, paper holders, or
trash, and then try to establish if you still have the item hidden on you or
not. Many times this will instantly break their chain of surveillance and
they will have to let you go. Also, if you use the Pharmacy bathroom and
dump the wrapper in the trash, you will have a few moments to get to the
doors while a TPS or APS will have to verify that the wrapper is there, and
radio to the person making the apprehension. However, this still
constitutes breaking observation, and they will probably just try to scare
you by manning the front doors. Under very rare conditions they can call a
DAPTL and get permission to make a bathroom apprehension, but this is almost
never allowed. Another thing to consider - the bathrooms in SuperTargets
are always right next to an Employees only door, usually right in front of
their break room. Come back out, and if no one's nearby, you could duck
right in there and run for the Employee entrance door. Careful, though, as
sometimes AP will hide right behind that first door and watch through the
window to see when you come out of the bathroom.

The same goes for ducking into the changing rooms. Hide an item like a DVD
inside a folded up pair of pants, request an item count tag from the
attendant at the changing rooms (if they're there) and walk inside. AP
cannot watch you from cameras while you're in there, and no cameras are near
enough to see in. This is law. They can try to get in another booth next
to yours and listen for packages opening, then find the empty package after
you leave. And changing attendants will often call AP if they think someone
is acting suspicious, or if they hear wrappers being torn. If an AP member
ever does arrest you after you entered the bathroom, they are probably
counting on the fact that you will be scared, and won't know that they can't
do it. They will alter their report to say that you unconcealed the stolen
items and reconcealed them again back out in the store after you left the
bathroom, which is enough to arrest you on. (Of course, if you really do
take the stuff out and then hide it again after you leave the bathroom, you
deserve to be arrested.) Many, many times APs of all levels will fudge
their reports to hide small mistakes they made or rules they overlooked for
the sake of arresting someone they were sure was guilty, and other AP
members will probably cover for them, for the greater good. Of course, they
risk arresting someone with nothing on them, which is very bad for an AP, or
of a fellow team member later ratting them out to an APTL, but chances are
they'll get away with it, especially if they're working alone that day.

********** The Ties That Bind **********

Now to touch more directly on AP rules. These explain why the bathroom
trick works. An APS has many rules about when they specifically *cannot*
make an apprehension (arrest you). More so, as I said in the intro, than
they do about when they *can* arrest you. The odds are *always* stacked in
an intelligent thief's favor, if they know the store policies. The stores
are too afraid of lawsuits, and let APs know they may be fired for even only
one false arrest, even after years of good service. They have several steps
they have to acquire during watching you that if they lose even one of, they
may not be able to make the arrest.

First, they must observe you enter the area without the about-to-be-stolen
merchandise. This rule is the most often overlooked by APSs, because
chances are they won't know you're a thief until you're stealing something.

Second, they have to see you select the merchandise from the shelf or
display. They can't risk arresting you for stuff you brought in to the
store on your own.

Third, they have to actually see you conceal the merchandise. They are
allowed leeway here, because you may have your back to them, but if they see
you pick up an item, fiddle with the wrapper, and suddenly the empty
wrapper's dropped on the shelf and the item has disappeared, they can make
"reasonable assumptions" that you have it hidden on you. Again, someone
watching on camera may be able to record you clearly hiding the item, and if
it's a fellow APS, the APS on the floor will probably be okay in trusting
their judgment. If it's a TPS on camera, the APS is not supposed to take
their word on it, but still can if they're willing to risk accepting the
legal blame and losing their job if they're wrong.

Fourth, and most importantly, the APS then has to *maintain* observation of
you so well that there is *no* reasonable doubt you still have the item on
you. This is the hardest bit of any surveillance, because a thief with an
item hidden knows they're a time bomb. The thief will start moving more
quickly, trying to find a safe way out, ducking around aisles, making it
harder for the APS to follow them. This is always a good idea for thieves.
Moving quickly, weaving, makes it harder for visual contact to be
maintained, and for cameras to follow you. A lot of times a thief good at
doubling back and weaving may lose the entire AP dept, and it won't be until
later when the tapes are reviewed that they see the thief leaving the store.

This gives you every opportunity to dump the stuff if you feel unsafe, and
still walk out a free person.

Fifth and last, you then have to actually walk through the doors with the
item still on you. All SuperTargets have double doors, and AP plays on
this. They will always take you as soon as you pass the first set of doors,
inside the foyer. If you haven't left the store with stolen goods, it isn't
theft yet, no crime has occurred. APS's are always asked, "Did you have
your Five Steps?" to determine if they actually followed the rules. There
are lots of mitigating circumstances where they can bend the rules, but
overall these ties bind them very tightly, and help you out enormously.

For instance - if you place a large box under your shirt that's so obvious
anyone can see the corners poking out, and the APS loses you during Step
Four, but finds you again right at the doors, still poking out squarely,
they can act on reasonable assumption that you are still stealing. Or if
you clearly are carrying the item in your hand, not concealing it at all,
they can ignore that rule too.

What this also means is that at any time, if you know that you are being
watched, or even suspect it, you don't have to hide anything. You could
walk right up to the APS, and remove every item from your jacket, hand it to
them, smile and walk out the door. There's nothing they can do.
Theoretically, you could even stop at the stands, before you leave, and drop
everything on the floor right there, wave to the camera, and go. But when
you get near the doors, it'll be hard to prove you weren't intending to
leave, so best to do it a ways back.

To help your case if you do get away, try to wear glasses, a hat, and
clothing you never intend to wear again. Alter your appearance as much as
possible. Die your hair, even. Too many thieves get recognized by their
signature clothing, and when you come back to steal the second time and get
caught, they'll remember the first time.

********** The Rundown **********

So let's say you've decided to go for it anyways. You know you're being
watched, but you really want that item tucked away in your jacket. You've
weaved and moved, but you're not sure if you lost them or not. You're near
the front doors, and you want to act casual, but suddenly one of several
things can go wrong.

There may be a TPS blocking your way out. Often, if they think you'll
spook and give up, a TPS may just walk nearby you while you're still in the
store, glancing very obviously in your direction and making a few more
passes as you continue. If a TPS is handling it, an APS may not even be on
duty. Remember, a TPS can only scare you, they can't stop you. If you go
all the way, they may stand right in front of the exit doors. If you cross
to the other doors, they'll cross with you, either pretending not to notice
you or staring blatantly at you. If this happens, head back out into the
store. Get to a safe distance, and see if the TPS is following you. Lead
them to the back of the store, and as fast as you can, don't worry about
other customers, sprint for the front. Blast out the doors, and away. You
never have to shop there again, you know. Or just quickly and casually
weave until the front doors are open, then walk quickly out. They cannot
stop you.

You may not see anyone, but an APS may be waiting nearby for you to head
out the doors. They will then run quietly up behind you, whip out their
orange security badge, and shout, "Target Security!" or "Asset Protection!"
or any combination of these with "Freeze!" They have to announce who they
are, otherwise you can claim later you thought you were being assaulted by a
stranger. They won't always pull out their badge, a verbal warning is
legally enough. Be ready if you think you've outrun them, too. . .many
times a lone APS will enlist burly, video-game-generation-violent store
employees to wait outside the doors and trap you. These guys don't know the
rules as well, and may just try to beat you into the ground instead of just
subduing you.

There's also a very important rule that Target thieves need to know - the
Sidewalk rule. If you can make it past the sidewalk, Target is supposed to
let you go. They can't risk the liability of chasing you into traffic and
getting you hurt or killed by a car. Of course, if an APS has their arms
around you, and you drag them past the sidewalk, you've just waived your
right to the Rule. It's all just part of the fight now. This is another
reason to be nervous of normal, non-AP employees. They may not know the
Rule, and drag you back from the lot if they can catch you, and AP will
probably bend the rules and fudge reports to cover. I witnessed it a few
times.

If you do get jumped by an APS at the door, it's best to assume there's
backup coming. A TPS has to maintain camera footage of the actual
apprehension starting, but the instant the APS makes contact with the thief,
the TPS will sprint out to help. This is why the AP office is at the front,
and exactly between both sets of front doors. Other employees and even
customers will often run over to help.

If you are going to do anything
violent to get free, do it as soon as you know you're being attacked.
Remember, the second doors will slow you down, no matter how fast you're
moving. An APS will run around in front of you, so if you do try to run, it
will probably be back into the store, where they can control you. APSs come
in all shapes and sizes, too, from tiny little women to massive,
bodybuilding men. And don't just assume that since they're small, you can
overpower them. Most of the tiny women I knew at Target could beat the hell
out of men twice their size in a few seconds. Target security are not lax
in their fight training. They are not allowed to use their radios,
handcuffs or anything else as weapons. They are not supposed to strike you,
only subdue you by grappling, but if you start swinging punches, they
probably will too, and then you have no legal excuse. You started it, and
they *will* have tape to prove it. (Remember those fixed cameras at the
front doors?) Other than that, all bets are off, and chances are no one
will care if you sustain extra bruises during your capture.

Here's a rule I would not advise you to use unless you're absolutely
desperate: Target policy forbids AP from attempting to arrest you, or even
coming near you, if you have a weapon. If at some point, while you're in
the store, you very clearly display a knife or gun to the cameras, they will
back off, and attempt to spook you into leaving. APSs will probably start
making themselves very obvious to you, not even trying to hide anymore, just
glaring as they walk past. *****HOWEVER*****. The instant they know you
have a weapon, and are apparently thinking about needing it to get out, they
may call the cops to provide backup. They will most certainly report you to
the police even if you do leave without stealing, especially if they get
your license plate. I would say that a smart thief should *NEVER* carry a
weapon for something like shoplifting. It will go *way* harder for you if
you do get arrested, and if you know the rules about being able to walk away
whenever you want, it's just not worth it. When stealing from Target, you
are never going to end up in a life-or-death situation. Or even a
life-or-jail one, if you can just get yourself to dump and walk away. If
you do want to carry something, I'd suggest pepper spray, as it's
non-lethal, and many people would just happen to have it on them. You could
always claim you were panicked by the sudden shout and person barreling down
on you, and you just reacted and sprayed them. You always carry pepper
spray for self-defense, right?

Of course, as with every other rule, there's an exception. . .if an AP
member is absolutely *sure* you cannot get to your weapon before they can
drop you, they may risk their own life and try to arrest you. They will
probably receive a stern warning later, but it's their choice. But it's
very heavily pushed upon all APs that no item in the store is ever worth
anyone's life. Just let them go, get video footage, report it to the
police.

A good idea for any thief is to consider alternative exits. Every Target
store has several emergency exit doors located around the outer walls.
These doors always have a Detex unit panic bar attached to them, and the
double doors (mostly found in SuperTargets) will also have a knob-controlled
vertical locking bar. These doors are also all hooked into the Operator's
alarm panel in the recesses of the Employee Only area. To open a panic bar,
you need only to push on the arm, and the door will open, setting off a
blaringly loud alarm, so be ready to run. (Unless the batteries have run
down, in which case it might be almost silent - hey, it's really happened a
lot. You could also plausibly pick the main lock to open the latch, or use
a set of Detex keys to open the casing lock and pull out the battery if you
had time.) And there’s a magnetic switch hooked to the top of the door
which sets off a small alarm at the Operator’s desk to let them know the
door has been opened. They will immediately contact AP by radio if a Detex
door is opened, and let them know which one. On the double doors, you can
first turn the knob on the vertical bar, which will unlock it, then slam
open the panic bar and run out. Neither of these devices can ever actually
be really locked, because they're emergency exits. In a fire or disaster,
they can't count on being able to get a key to them, so *anyone*, at
*anytime*, has to be able to open them easily. This is very popular with
kids, who know the odds of AP catching them running out an emergency door
are slim. If you don't think you're being watched yet, you might even
release the locking bar first before you've taken anything, and then when
you've got the stolen goods, run at full speed, slamming open the Detex bar
and, simultaneously, the door, and sprinting away. AP might notice it's
unlocked, though, and set a trap for you by waiting right outside, or behind
nearby shelves. A lot of times fixed cameras are pointed right at these
doors because they're so popular with repeat boosters. (Oh, side note -
anyone who has been recognized, even vaguely, as having used the fire exits
to steal several times, even from different stores, will attract the special
attention of those RAPTLs and DAPTLs I mentioned earlier, the Target SWAT
team. They don't like fire exit boosters, and will specifically set traps
just for you, boyo.)

But, warning aside, they are a very good alternative when other doors seem
blocked. Many thieves will even have an accomplice waiting right outside
the emergency door in a car, so they can peel away. If AP sees a car on
camera waiting by an exit door, though, they may come out to speak to you or
call the police to shoo you away. Or just set traps for you. Anyways.
There is usually a door in the sports section of the store, near the Camping
Goods, right on an aisle. There are usually four hidden in Employee Only
areas at the back of the store. In Grocery where the long freezer walls
meet at the corner, there is a swinging door set. Go through these, and
just beyond should be another emergency exit door. The same goes if you're
along the back wall of the store, in the Domestics sections. There will be
a large set of swinging doors, charge through these, you should see straight
ahead of you a fire door. Also, if you follow the tall shelves of items in
the rear warehouse area of SuperTargets, it may look like you're heading
towards a dead end, but in between the last shelf aisles will be another
Detex door (with no locking bar!), and beyond that, in the employee
training/conference room, there will also be a non-bar Detex door. You risk
employees spotting you, of course, but unless they're ignorant of the rules
they shouldn't try to actually stop you, other than shouting "Hey!"

If you're really bold, you could even charge into the Employees Only
swinging doors at the front of the store (SuperTarget only), and towards the
Employee entrance door. (It will always be right by the Operator's desk,
and has EAS stands around it, because they don't trust employees, either.)
You'd probably have to run past several employees, and definitely right past
the AP office door, but once you're out, you're gone into the parking lot.

Of course, with all this excitement and bravery, there still comes the
gentler ways of getting out. AP, despite being well trained and on the
ball, is only human and cannot be everywhere. They probably only spot about
10% of the theft going on, and catch about 1%.

Many people will try just filling up a cart with whatever they want and
walking through the register lanes and right out the door. Out in the
parking lot, they can load up their car at leisure. (Not quite the same as
the cart-full-of-DVD-players I said earlier, this is just a cart full of
different, probably not too expensive items.) Someone may have a Target bag
from a previous purchase that still looks relatively new, pull it out of
their pocket in the store, load up, and walk out. Some people make a small
purchase, ask for a bag, and then head back into the store and load more
goods into it. And there's always the most common supermarket theft in the
world - eating candy out of the candy bins without paying for it, or "just
one or two" grapes from the shelf. I used to take great pleasure in
sneaking up on little fat kids stealing candy from the bins, coming right up
behind them, and saying, basso profundo, "You gonna pay for that?" Deer in
the headlights, every time.

********** When It All Comes Down **********

Uh oh. . .you made a bad mistake, and now you're in cuffs and being taken
to the Office to await your punishment. What do you do now?

Let's backtrack a moment and look at the theft you made, to see where we
can improve your chances. First - AP doesn't like to apprehend for items
under $20, because then they can really only warn you, take the stuff back,
put you in a report, take your picture and let you go. If you have a
one-dollar candy bar, you could probably walk right out the door waving it
over your head and no one would stop you. And I really mean $20. . .if
you're even half a buck under, they'll probably let you go. But Gods help
you if you're a penny over.

If you don't think your chances are good when you're being arrested (i.e.
the APS towers over you, biceps bulging), do not fight in *any* way. Calmly
hold up your hands, palms open, and state that you surrender. Lay down on
the floor with your hands behind your back if you want, and let them
peacefully cuff you. I guarantee, if you're calm and don't look like you'll
run, they won't even cuff you. They'll take you firmly by the arm to make
sure you can't get away, though. This is a time when some thieves might try
to suddenly attack the AP, break free and run back out the door, but the
police will then be after you for assault. Chances are they probably got
good enough footage of you to screw you over on that count, and there
probably won't be just one AP holding your arm, either. The more you
cooperate, the better they'll treat you.

If you were dumb enough to bring a weapon, and you're now cuffed and being
led away, clearly state, "I want you to know, I have a weapon, a (knife,
gun, etc.) in my (right pocket, holster, etc.)" Do *not* try to remove it,
as this might be taken as hostile action.

When you're taken to the Office, you will be on camera the whole time
you're in it. Don't try to make up any stories about AP beating you
severely (unless they really did), or sexually molesting you, because AP is
*very* good about getting everything on tape, and will be able to prove
quickly that you're a thief *and* a liar. They also always leave at least
one AP or store team member of the same sex as you in the office the whole
time, to act as a witness.

You will be sat down in a plastic chair, or in one of the new restraining
benches being installed in most Targets. These are metal benches with a
crossbar for attaching handcuffs, so they don't have to worry about you
running away until the cops get there. Here's an interesting secret - the
crossbar actually is made in two pieces, and screws together like a curtain
rod at the center. You can't see the seam because of a support, but the bar
can be unscrewed, and not only are you free then, you have a length of metal
pipe for a weapon. Of course, many AP people have realized this, and taken
the time to superglue it together. (And they will probably just have
attached a second set of cuffs to the chain on your cuffs, and that to the
bar, so even if you do get free, you're still cuffed behind your back. Not
a good situation for escape.)

Here's something to drill into your skull: please, *please* do not try the
"I have to go the bathroom" trick. Even if you really do have to go. AP is
not going to let you, no matter how much you whine. If they've been around,
they will probably tell you, "That's why the chair is plastic," or, "That's
why the bench has all those little holes in it." They're serious. Wet
yourself right there if you want. And don't try the "Owwwww, my handcuffs
are too tight, waaaah," thing. In a few minutes the police will be there
and will change out their handcuffs for AP's, so you can whine all you want
to them instead.

Now they move on to questioning you. They will need all the personal info
they can get from you for their reports. Name, age, ID if you've got it
(don't bring it if you're feeling rebellious). They will want to know why
you stole, and most of the time all they ever hear is "I don't know."
Unless you tried to beat them up, they will be very civil and polite to you,
and try to convince you to tell them more about what you were doing when you
tried to steal. A *very* common line from APSs and APTLs interviewing
thieves is, "Now we're going to try to establish your honesty, so I can tell
the cops you're dealing fair with us. It'll go better for you. Now, I know
everything you took. I know everything you did. And I want you to tell me,
in detail, what you did, to see how honest you're going to be with me."
They usually only use this line if they're missing some important gap in
their observation of you. They will also tend to sit you down and
immediately tell you, "I want everything you took on this desk right now.
Everything you were going to steal." If you're cuffed, they may have to
remove it for you. But it's definitely smart to obey them on this count at
least. . .they're right, the police will be searching you as soon as they
arrive, and it will be noted that you tried to lie about not having any
other stolen goods on you. However, if you *did* take stuff under $20, and
they haven't found it all, and you're pretty sure you're about to be let go,
you can risk bluffing it out and still get away with something for the day's
hassle.

Overall, if you just want to get the legal stuff done with quickly and
accept your punishment, I'd say cooperate completely. However, you are not
required to cooperate with Target in any way. You can just say, "I'm taking
my right to remain silent in advance," and then shut up until the cops get
there. It's probably better this way. The cops may submit all your
personal info back to Target later, but the less info they have on you, the
better your chances are for stealing in the future. Don't try to lie to the
cops, though. You can still continue to remain silent, it is your right.
But the cops will be able to really check if you lie about your name,
address, etc. I know this seems like common sense, but there are probably
going to be a lot of dumb people out there who would try this.

Another note: Target can hold you for a reasonable amount of time before
calling the police. They could keep you in that office for a few hours if
they wanted, pumping you about your theft.

Honestly, I'm not sure what'll happen to you after the cops take you off, I
never checked up. I do know that I've seen people I personally fought to
the ground and arrested walking around free a few months later, so it can't
be that bad.

********** Common Sense and Random Ideas **********

Since I've written this whole thing from about midnight until 8 AM, my
mind's getting fuzzy, but I wanted to finish it all in one go. So here's
the rest of the advice and cool ideas I can offer up before I hit the sack.

Price tag switching is a very common means of theft at any store. You can
steal the sticker off of another, less expensive item, and lay it over the
item you want. Hopefully the cashier will not notice, or you might even
find a slightly crooked friend already working at that store who's willing
to overlook it. Some crooked cashiers will attach stickers to their
forearms or watch, so when their friend comes through the line at a
pre-decided time, they can simply swipe their own arm across as each item
goes pass, ringing up the same price every time. This will be very obvious
if AP ever reviews the transactions by computer, but otherwise is a great
way to help your friends steal. Tech-savvy thieves can also try printing up
their own sticker labels at home by buying an item with a low price,
scanning the image of the barcode into their home computer, and printing
them up on adhesive backed paper, available at any office supply store.

When cutting open a totally sealed package, don't rip it with your bare
hands. This makes way too much noise, and is very noticeable on camera.
Bring along a sharp exacto knife or box cutter, and slice as much as you can
around the item inside. If you can cut it completely away so that no
bending or ripping of the package has to occur to get it out, all the
better. A lot of tricksters will pay cash for a DVD, take it home, and very
carefully open the bottom part of the clear wrapper. They remove the box,
take out the DVD, and carefully slide the box back inside the wrapper, then
reseal it with clear glue. Sometimes they might use a cheap, throwaway CD
or blank CD-ROM to replace it for correct weight. Take it back to the same
store, and return it for your money back (they only make you
exchange-for-the-same if the package has been opened). Your crime will
probably go undiscovered until the next person buys it off the shelf and
brings it back to complain. (Pay with cash so you leave no trail of
yourself, just in case.)

Box stuffing is another common means of theft. Select a very large box
(say a baby stroller), open it up, and stuff lots of small, inexpensive
items into it, then tape it back up (bring your own tape). The cashier
rings up the big box, you pay for it, take it home, and empty out your
goodies. You can even return the big box item the next day and get your
money back.

Don't waste time on small potatoes. Sure, you could steal that DVD today.
Or you could steal a $100 jacket, sell it on Ebay, and buy five DVDs
tomorrow.

If you ever find a receipt from Target on the ground or in the trash
somewhere, and it doesn't look horribly mangled or dirty, see if there's
anything expensive on it paid for by cash or check. (Make sure it's for a
previous day if it's by check, so they can't just say, Oh, here's your
check, we'll just tear it up.) You can then walk into the store, grab that
same item off the shelf, take it to Guest Services and "return" it for the
cash. If you can ever get your hands on a roll of real receipt tape from
Target, you could scan in a real receipt from a minor purchase, and alter it
according to match more expensive items, then print it out yourself. Brand
new is much better than trash receipts. Of course, AP watches for people
doing this, and you may not even realize you have the whole dept. casually
waiting around you at the desk, looking just like customers. I suppose you
could also just buy entirely blank receipt tape of the same texture and size
from an office supply, and scan both the front and back of the receipt,
printing up new ones all your own. However, be forewarned that since they
keep computer-cash register records, they can instantly bring up your
previous transaction, and see that the receipt doesn't match, or doesn't
exist at all. This is why it's better to just use found receipts, or if you
find a dirty, mangled, receipt, print up a shiny new one with the exact same
info on it.

AP also watches specifically for people waiting in cars right outside the
front doors. Thieves will have their buddies wait for them in case they
come out running, so they can peel away. This is stupid, because Target
won't chase you into the parking lot. Just have your friend park way back
in the lot, and run out to them. Or, as suggested earlier, come entirely on
foot, and leave the same way so there's no way to identify you.

If for some reason you ever think about robbing Target's Guest Service desk
(beats me why, it's right out in the open and all), don't fall for their
Robbery Fund. It's a plastic clear bag with wads of cash inside it labeled
"$2000" on each wad. It's really a load of ones with big bills around it.
(I don't think it's an ink-pack or tracker, just a sucker batch to make you
think you got more than you really did.)

If you're one of those ridiculous drug thieves that likes to steal Sudafed
for your suppliers, keep in mind that Target will let you actually buy three
boxes at a time, with no problem. APs don't mind buyers, but when a
jittery, obvious junkie comes in and starts dumping boxes and boxes of
Sudafed into a handbasket, they are definitely going to be waiting for you
at the doors.

The AP offices will always have a spare handcuff key somewhere, probably
hanging on the wall, and a door that has to be opened from the inside
(meaning no one else can come in from the outside without their own key).
The ceiling is usually a false lowered ceiling, which means a person could
push up the acoustic tile, climb onto the wall structures and make their way
carefully to another room, climb quickly down and run for it.

Do not ever act nonchalant, then suspicious when you think you're alone,
then nonchalant again when you see a person walk by. This is what AP is
hoping to see you do. The best thieves will appear casual and like they
don't even notice that they *are* stealing while they're doing it. If you
can open a package while moving around a corner, even better. Corners are
your friends, as they momentarily break surveillance of you as the APS
follows or the camera view has to be switched. If you need to conceal or
dump, do it on the move, preferably the instant after you turn a corner.

At some Targets (the plain Targets), ceiling mirrors will be installed over
some high-theft aisles. APSs will carry small hand mirrors covered by a
magazine or other item, and look down into their mirror, which reflects the
ceiling mirror, and shows them what you're doing in the next aisle over.
For some reason most thieves never look up into these mirrors. They
probably think they're hiding cameras or something. Even without a hand
mirror, an APS can simply pretend to be shopping the top shelf, and glance
upwards directly at the ceiling mirror. If you start to head down the
aisle, they will pace you in the opposite direction, moving around the
endcap right as you do, watching you in the mirror, and you may never even
know they're there. They also sometimes will push along a cart with a large
mirror in it, turned at a sideways angle so they can see down an aisle
they're walking past just before they themselves actually come into view.

If you ever see someone up on a hydraulic lift repairing cameras or moving
camera domes, do not assume it's just a janitor. Only AP touches the
cameras and domes, and they now have a bird's eye view of you.

The best time of day to steal is probably the instant the store opens in
the morning. TPSs working solo shifts have to make the rounds of the store,
and take a tally of all the high-theft items on a clipboard. This keeps
them in a predictable pattern of movement, as they generally make one big
circle around the store, and they won't be in the office watching the
cameras. Many shifts are covered completely alone by a TPS or APS with no
backup at all. Every store usually has only one or two APSs, and at least
three or four TPSs that come on different shifts. At store closing, the
main lights will be shut off, and the doors manned by regular employees so
that no one new comes in, but the last people in the checkout lane may get
out. The TPSs have to make the rounds with the inventory clipboard again at
closing, so this would also be a good time to steal, although it increases
the chance there will be another AP member somewhere in the store or
watching cameras. The TPS will check in Pharmacy, for drugs and razors,
through a lot of aisle for empty packages, the radar detectors, GPS units,
and anything else being watched for high theft.

To sum it all up, the best things you can do for yourself are:
- Come on foot, or park out of view of the store.
- Pay attention to your "shopping". Only lifters watch other shoppers.
- Be casual. Don't look up, or around.
- Once loaded, move fast, and weave.
- Use alternate exits if you don't feel safe.
- Pay attention to radio announcements from nearby employees.
- Hit the bathrooms or changing room to screw them up.
- TPS's by their own lonesome cannot stop you. But they may have backup.
- Try to keep it as far under $20 as you can if you think you'll be caught.
- If all else fails, drop the stuff in very plain view, and leave.

Good luck to all the up-and-comers out there. I hope this tutorial was as
entertaining and informative as the disclaimer says it was. Again, I accept
no responsibility if you actually act on any of this info, and it's your own
damn fault if you get caught. I apologize if I forgot to mention anything,
you'll just have to figure it out on your own. And there's always the
chance that after a few months from this tutorial's release, they'll find
out about it, freak out, and change everything. But, life is an adventure.
Just think slow, follow the guidelines, and you'll be right on Target.
Peace, cheers, and I'm out.

- Xap

zunox1

04-01-2009, 05:15 AM

Thank you for that.. very informational. may try to steal something from there at one point in the near future.

Broke

04-01-2009, 08:09 AM

hmm...i read the whole thing and didn't learn anything...i've been in the game too long.

good guide not 5 stars but a 4 is still good enough.

nice to see im on the same page as a person who worked deep in security

stdismas

04-01-2009, 11:30 AM

Ha! Good to see it's still making the rounds...I'm Xap, I wrote that file. :)

KeepOnTruckin

04-01-2009, 09:54 PM

good to see you again stdismas, I can personally vouch for you being Xap from Totse. I try to distribute it as much as possible.

stdismas

04-01-2009, 11:56 PM

Thanks man, I appreciate it! I know a bunch of this stuff is outdated now, like TPS uniforms being black with silver badges instead of brown. And increasing numbers of real cameras and so on. I guess when that other guy posted the 2006 manual online and Target tried (and failed) to find and sue him, they had to change some of the procedures too. It was awesome to see my file posted on the same page that guy set up. :)

KeepOnTruckin

04-02-2009, 12:18 AM

Its required that they wear all black undershirts now too- cant be white. And TPS's seem to have apprehension powers now.

macnolias

04-02-2009, 04:12 AM

I can barely read to begin with and you expect all the other illiterates of BI to read that? How about a summarized version of it?

Helladamnleet

04-02-2009, 08:48 PM

no i'm saying if i pay for the camera, and release it online for free like intended and have a dvd format available for people who want a hard copy.

point i'm trying to make is i will end up paying for the camera, not getting any donations for the free online release, and not selling any dvds because its free online...so i will put myself in a $300 hole while the rest of the world profits.

and the spy camera is to show you live field work so ppl wont say "o he's just showing us in a staged setting it would never work in a real store"

but you know what fuck it, the world can burn and the world doesn't deserve to be educated

I'm sorry, you ruined the whole thread for me. If you're so good at stealing shit, why don't you just STEAL a spy camera?

rustyshackleford420

04-02-2009, 09:31 PM

youre gonna get caught in the end

We're gunna die in the end so who cares if we get caught along the way.

KeepOnTruckin

04-02-2009, 11:12 PM

if you cant be bothered to read that, then you have no place getting the 5 finger discount at Target. Go to Kmart

slickt0mmy

04-03-2009, 12:22 AM

I can barely read to begin with and you expect all the other illiterates of BI to read that? How about a summarized version of it?

How about you stfu? You wanna know the info, you gotta read the text. If you weren't such a failure, you'd notice that he DOES include a summarized version in the original post. Way to suck, dickhead. :thumbsup:

zunox1

04-03-2009, 12:39 AM

I would like some advice on grab + go shoplifting. this would be performed at a grocery store, because the item(s) i need are most easily available there. so far, i have walked in with a friend, grabbed 2 of what i needed, and walked out, calmly. nobody has stopped us either time, and i don't think anybody even saw us leaving with it until it was too late. what i want to know is: am i just getting lucky? it seems like if it was really this easy, more people would do it? also, is it any more risky or any less risky to do it with a basket (handheld)? a cart? does it matter the price of the item i may be taking, as to how suspicious i may seem?

zunox1

04-03-2009, 01:38 AM

if you cant be bothered to read that, then you have no place getting the 5 finger discount at Target. Go to Kmart

:thumbsup: ! It isn't a very hard read, just a long one. But yeah, if you cant take the time to read it, you dont get the discount ;)

Hyper-dimension

04-03-2009, 02:05 AM

You can remove spider wraps with an Alpha Security S3 Handkey, or make one on your own. There are links in this thread.

I don't understand why everyone is so troubled by these. Nine out of ten times, I can just pull them off. It may take a few seconds to work it around a corner, but it can almost always be done.

If not, wrap the portion of the spider wrap with the alarm speaker, the round portion, in bath towels or clothes. A few layers over the speaker, and when you cut the wire the alarm can't be heard. Dump the alarm behind some obscure product.

stdismas

04-03-2009, 08:12 PM

Heh...yeah, everybody here knows how long-winded my posts are. :) Thanks for all the thumbs-ups on it, though.

KeepOnTruckin

04-03-2009, 08:17 PM

FYI- i posted this to the Tosepeida
http://zoklet.net/index.php/Stealing_Super_Target

deerpark

04-04-2009, 11:45 PM

I was wondering if they can grab you out side of the store? also i was wondering if they can grab you out side of the store if your under 18?

Echidna

04-04-2009, 11:57 PM

I worked at k-mart and they had a policy if they leave the sidewalk then only the cops can deal with them. This is because of traffic outside of the store and not wanting to cause an accident. This is only a company/store policy, not a law. The security guy once went into the street to get a guy, but his car was parked in the fire lane along the sidewalk. It wasn't really a stretch. 18 or not they will grab you if inside.

plutomic

04-04-2009, 11:59 PM

stdismas

04-05-2009, 12:26 AM

Target had the sidewalk rule, too, but we still broke it sometimes when I worked there. It would get the AP's in trouble, but not fired. I chased a guy once all the way across the parking lot to the highway nearby, and still brought him back, because he'd hurt my boss when she went to grab him.

And age doesn't really matter...even if you're under 18, they'll still apprehend you. It only affects how the police will deal with you afterward. I busted a lot of kids and preteens. It's really about the dollar amount of how much you steal...under $20, and if you're calm, polite and a first timer, they'll probably let you go after entering you into the computer reports.

InspiredByMe

04-05-2009, 12:35 AM

Target had the sidewalk rule, too, but we still broke it sometimes when I worked there. It would get the AP's in trouble, but not fired. I chased a guy once all the way across the parking lot to the highway nearby, and still brought him back, because he'd hurt my boss when she went to grab him.

How old do you have to be to get this job? Also do they have 'under cover' work, as in not in the uniform but regular clothes blending in?

I don't know about wal marts policy but most stores have the sidewalk/street policy. I knew this one kid that had stolen a CD from walmart and one of the AP followed and chased him out of the store and tackled him in the parking lot. His parents ended up pressing charges at the store, because he had busted his nose when he tackled him, but in the end they let him go but the store had to pay for medical bills. But in this case it was only $12.

stdismas

04-05-2009, 12:10 PM

If I remember right, I *think* you could start out as a uniformed TPS at 16, but I'm not certain, could be 18. And yeah, they do have undercover APS...you don't just start out as one, though. I started out as a uniform, and since I worked really hard at it I got to be undercover in 6 months. You just go in to the employment kiosk at a Target store and see if there are openings for Asset Protection, and apply like you would for any job. You get interviewed by the APTL, and they're looking for people that really want to work in security, that aren't afraid to fight (but know to use violence as a last resort) and who can perform well under pressure.

Steal_Everything

04-05-2009, 04:44 PM

@@@

04-05-2009, 08:16 PM

I love walmart's clearance section. I got two $400 computers, a $70 graphics card, and a ton of little shit from it recently. There's no cameras and few security tags.

Craigslist.org

04-05-2009, 08:47 PM

Switch price tags and prey on a new cashier.:cool:

fishmonger

04-06-2009, 07:17 AM

Hot tip for you guys: Most large chain stores have a staff meeting in the morning, a little after opening. Most Wal-Marts around me are at 9am.

They have to sing and clap and power up for the days whatever.

A lot of the time, not every time, the plainclothes LP are supposed to attend these meetings. So if you ever had a suspicion before that some one might be LP, there you go.

Also, when most employees in the store are at the meeting you can do the math on what you can get away with throughout the store.

.it

04-06-2009, 02:10 PM

zunox1

04-07-2009, 02:19 AM

how the fuck am i suppose to wake up that early :mad:

stay up till 9am one night, then go there and steal an alarm clock during that time. from then on, just use the alarm clock to wake up at that time :thumbsup:.
useful info on the staff meeting, do you know if all LP type people actually go? and do they have any eyes on the cameras during that time?

fishmonger

04-07-2009, 09:05 AM

Lol I was gonna add the only hard part is waking up. I am only awake at that time of day unless I have to.

I don't have any absolute proof the camera's are unmanned. But at almost all big chain stores except Target there are plenty of blind spots still.

It is mostly just useful to spot LP.

Some stores also have this same type of "team meeting" on the sales floor for the other shifts. I have seen them happen at 6pm for some stores. It helps if you need a distraction.

Irukanji

04-07-2009, 06:05 PM

Stealing is bad.

Instead of loving his neighbor as himself, you takes your neighbor's possessions.

So im giving the girl next door sexy time now am i?

Irukanji

04-07-2009, 06:17 PM

Hey guys, just warning you. I went to walmart to steal some cd's, and I set the alarms off. (I've never seen a security strip inside a cd case) And I read here they mess cd's up.

When I got home I found this in one of them:
http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/8249/50573459.jpg

So I cant take that one back :(

Just rip it off, then you ~should~ be able to.

Now, for all those with a few more balls then brains, go to the hardware section and get yourself a small pair of bolt cutters. Next, drift over to the fishing section, and cut the cable which holds the tag onto the reels. Note: DONT CUT THE FUCKING SPIDERS LEGS. They bite. Also,(continuing with note) Most spiders are put on by the retards that just started working there. Their usually loose, and as such can just be slipped off, and disposed of(go to the camping section and pretend to be looking at bags and slip it in).

Now, after you have your reel, fold the handle down and stick it in your pocket/bag.

-------------------------

Anything with the thin HDPE casing. Use a box cutter and just slash it. If your good, you should only need to do 2 cuts, one on the top, one on the side. Then you can fold it open and take your stuff, and maybe be able to stick the plastic back so it looks like it was never opened. Put it on backwards so the paper on the back will hide the contents from camera's, if you choose to take it back to the shelf.

Ideally, you should be able to cut as you walk. This makes it slightly less suspicious, as you wont keep looking around. Go to your favourite blind spot(NEVER go there twice, unless you dont dump packaging there) and cut it as you walk around the corner. Pocket the shit, and walk to the next aisle and ditch the packaging(unless there is a camera in that aisle).

Use one of the small blades, which look like a triangle with the top cut off. These should fit into most wallets. That way, they wont cut you, and wont fall out accidentally when you get something from your pocket.

After you get your loot, proceed to the door, but dont make it obvious. Spend 2-5 more minutes in the store, and watch your back. See that mid 30's woman, with a bag that was in the last aisle with you? She's probably LP/AP. If you go to another part of the store and she follows, ditch the loot and walk out(keep it somewhere where you can retrieve it late, or have a friend retrieve.). Dont look nervous when you walk out, or they'll pick up on it straight away. If your listening to music, it makes it alot easier to remain calm/not nervous, but then you cant hear the security calls, etc. And dont look at people when you walk in, unless you know them(friendly, not some random from school who knows you steal shit).

Just keep your cool, and if you have to run, run. If you have to fight, fight. If you have to ditch your goods, do so. Do whatever it takes to remain free, otherwise for the sake of a few dollars worth of shit, you'll either go to jail or lose more money(fines, etc).

.it

04-07-2009, 11:08 PM

Hey, I thought of something. In walmart in the Automotive section they only have one of those sensor things. So say it was on your right side, could you put something on your left hip and it not go off?

When I go to walmart next time I'm going to take an activated security strip and have it in my right pocket, when I walk in and see if it goes off :cool:

i think it will still go off. unless u have foil or something lines up inside your body to block the frequency.

Rusty Shackelford

04-07-2009, 11:30 PM

SWIM believes this is the best method for larger/higher $$$ items.

This is what SWIM did:

1. Go to Costco with a friend that is a member.
2. Load up cart with regular items (Food, socks, toilet paper, etc. Regular stuff you would buy anyway).
3. Place item to be stolen in cart with regular items (ps3, laptop, computer display... whatever).
4. Proceed to checkout.
5. Accomplice purchases regular items.
6. SWIM purchases item to be stolen.
--(you now have two receipts)--
7. Big ticket item should be concealed, as well as possible, by other items in the cart. This is not too difficult, given that you load your own cart and they usually give you empty boxes (vs. bags) to place your goods in.
8. Proceed to exit where items will be checked by a store employee against the receipt. (SWIM keeps his receipt in his pocket)
9. Exit the store and put your stuff in your car or whatever.
10. Return to the store on the same day (SWIM just goes right back in) with SWIM's receipt for the item to be stolen.
11. SWIM goes back and gets ANOTHER ps3 or laptop or whatever.
12. Head for the exit and provide the original receipt to the person at the door.
13. Leave the store.

option 1: Go back to the store and return one of the computer displays for full refund. (FREE)
option 2: Keep both displays (2-for-1!)

NOTES:
1. Obviously you want to play it cool. Don't look nervous or shifty. SWIM likes to go in looking presentable. It might help to make small-talk with clerk/receipt checker ("this heat is awful" or "sure is busy in here today").
2. A downside to this plan is that you have to make a regular purchase (you need some capital $$) but you can always return everything you don't want. Costco has an excellent return policy. SWIM only does this when he is going to be doing regular shopping anyway.
2. This method assumes that the receipt checker does not notice that the high ticket item is not on the receipt. Sounds ludicrous but SWIM has not found this to be a problem. --If they DO notice the inconsistency, SWIM simply pulls out his receipt and plays it off as absent-mindedness... silly SWIM. He can then take it back for full refund and try again later.
3. SWIM found that if alcohol is purchased legitimately, the receipt checker person is more focused on making sure that alcohol has not been stolen than on anything else in the cart. A full case of beer on the bottom of the cart works well for this little distraction.
4. SWIM also found that a ps3 is listed something like "160GBPS3" on the receipt and DOES NOT include a serial number (same goes for displays and other items). The receipt checking personnel often have no idea what these things are and less of an idea what the cost of such as item should be.
5. The ONLY difficult part is getting through the checkout the 2nd time without making a purchase. Use creativity here.
6. Finally, you can't really get into trouble with this plan. As long as you have purchased the item legitimately, you will have a receipt. If they notice it's not on the friends receipt, SWIM just plays it off. When you go through the second time you still have a valid receipt. If you messed it up they could confront you but there is no arguing a valid receipt. Just have to keep your head.

There are other details that were not mentioned (already a lengthy post) but this should be enough to get you thinking about what can be done and the possible hurdles to overcome.

I'm interested in your thoughts.

Azure

04-07-2009, 11:46 PM

Man, I remember Costco having free food samples given out literally around every corner.

Why the fuck would you want to steal something they practically hand out like candy?

Player 1

04-07-2009, 11:49 PM

this is what ive always wanted to do but never had the money
first you need to go when they first open so there aren't many people there. then go to pick out your large lcd plasma whatever tv. Then find a line that is pretty much empty. When your buying the tv make small talk and be memorable to the person. when you get your receipt hide it on your person (pocket) and go to checkout. when they ask for receipt pretend that you cant find it. then to prove that your really made the purchase have them ask the checker to see if you really did. they will say yes and you have a tv with a receipt. have a friend then go in and get the same tv and use your receipt and you now you can return one on a later date to get your money back

Raptor Ribs

04-07-2009, 11:54 PM

Man, I remember Costco having free food samples given out literally around every corner.

Why the fuck would you want to steal something they practically hand out like candy?

Ugg Because they don't give out free computers/mp3 players/ etc etc

Uriah Heep

04-07-2009, 11:54 PM

Why the fuck would you want to steal something they practically hand out like candy?

Because they capitalize the little man:mad:

zunox1

04-08-2009, 04:21 AM

You dont NEED a card to get in, just walk past the people asking for cards. wait for a small crowd if you can, they won't leave their post to come track you down most of the time. you can also find a person of the opposite sex and walk in nearby (but just behind) and say "im with him/her". me and a friend used to walk in high all the time to get their cheap ass pizza (1.50$ for a huge slice?!?), and we just walked past the people. they were like "hey! guys, we need to see your costco card!" but by then we were a good 10 or 20 feet from the door.

Rusty Shackelford

04-08-2009, 05:54 AM

Steal_Everything

04-08-2009, 06:40 AM

You fail. Receipts have times on them. Rethink your plan.