What is the primary purpose of using video cameras in retail stores?

• A. Collect customer demographics
• B. Deter loitering
• C. Monitor employee performance
• D. Reduce shoplifting

Answer: (D)

The key idea is loss prevention through visible surveillance. Video cameras in retail are primarily used to reduce shoplifting by deterring theft and by providing clear evidence if a theft occurs. The presence of cameras can discourage shoplifting in real time, and recorded footage helps identify suspects and support investigations, which directly cuts losses. While cameras can also have secondary effects like deterring loitering or giving managers a view of staff performance, those are not the main purpose. Collecting customer demographics might happen in some cases, but it’s not the primary security objective behind installing cameras in stores.