Bargain hunters scouring online marketplaces like Vinted and eBay for a post-Christmas wardrobe boost are being urged to stay vigilant, as a sharp rise in 'shoplifting to order' is flooding platforms with stolen goods.
The Rise of 'Shoplifting to Order'
According to a leading retail security specialist, criminals are increasingly operating on a commission basis, receiving specific lists of items to steal from shops and supermarkets. This organised practice has seen a significant surge in recent weeks.
Thieves typically target high-value, easily concealed products such as jewellery, premium cosmetics, and designer clothing labels. However, there have also been instances of bulkier goods being taken to fulfil orders.
The Real Cost of a 'Victimless' Crime
Andrew Cockerill, Account Director for Retail at security firm Kingdom Security, which supplies staff to major high street chains, stressed the wider impact. "While it might be tempting to think that putting an order in this way is a victimless crime, it is anything but," he warned.
He explained that even when offenders are caught, the financial losses incurred by retailers ultimately lead to higher prices, which are passed on to consumers. Research from the Centre for Retail Research supports this, indicating that shoplifting adds around £133 to the average British household's annual shopping bill.
How to Spot Suspicious Listings
Andrew Cockerill advises shoppers to exercise extreme caution when encountering deals that seem suspiciously attractive. Key red flags include:
- Brand new items being sold at a fraction of their retail value.
- Sellers who have multiple high-value items listed in a similar, new condition.
- A seller's profile that seems to specialise in a stream of new, desirable products.
"If you see this on Facebook Marketplace, Vinted or eBay, these items may have come from 'shoplifting to order'," he said. "You could unknowingly be taking part in criminal activity."
The expert also highlighted the human risk, particularly for smaller businesses without dedicated security. "Shopkeepers may be forced to confront the thief themselves, which poses a real danger to them and their staff," Cockerill added.
As the January financial squeeze continues, the appeal of a bargain is stronger than ever. However, shoppers are reminded that if a deal looks too good to be true, it very often is—and may carry a hidden cost for everyone.
