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What is a Loss Control Program, And Do I Need One

What is a Loss Control Program, And Do I Need One?

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

A loss control program is a coordinated set of actions or practices that help locate and address potential risks for a business. The program could evaluate losses from employee theft, financial difficulties from claims or lawsuits, and other risks. A tailored loss control program reduces risk and mitigates the extent of economic losses when unexpected incidents occur. 

How Do I Know If I Need a Loss Control Program?

Most businesses can benefit from a loss control program. The first step is to review your business’s risks. You have risks unique to your enterprise, along with a range of standard risks. Some common potential losses that many companies share include:

  • Product theft
  • Damaged inventory
  • Workplace injuries
  • Property damage
  • Online security threats
  • Client claims

Most businesses find that having a safety manual for employees is a practical part of a loss prevention program. Educating your staff makes them more likely to respond to emergencies correctly and confidently.

 

What is a Loss Control Program, And Do I Need One? (February 04, 2025). InsuranceNeighbor.com.

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Credential Harvesting: A Serious Threat to Your Organization’s Security and Privacy

Credential Harvesting: A Serious Threat to Your Organization’s Security and Privacy

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

Credential harvesting is a serious threat to your organization’s online security and privacy. It can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, account takeover, and unauthorized access to confidential information—affecting both your employees and your users.

Social engineering and phishing attacks are commonly used to compromise retailers’ systems and gain access to sensitive data or credentials.

Cybercriminals employ various methods to obtain sensitive information, including bot fraud, phishing emails, fake websites, and social engineering techniques that exploit human vulnerabilities.

Credential harvesting attacks pose significant threats across various industries, especially in the financial services sector. These attacks can have devastating consequences, ranging from financial losses and reputational damage to costly regulatory penalties.

Source:
Meyer, C. (2025, March 12). Retail Cybercriminals Turn to Credential Harvesting. Security Magazine.

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Focus on Metrics: Measuring and Communicating Security Effectiveness

Focus on Metrics: Measuring and Communicating Security Effectiveness

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

Security operations rarely generate profit for the organization. While security is seldom recognized for all the preventive work done, it is often praised for responding to incidents—although this response typically represents only a small, yet critical, portion of our time.

We should focus more on demonstrating our value through smart, innovative metrics that are easily communicated, understood, and actionable for everyone on our team—and especially for all employees.

Source:
Rhatigan, D. (2025, March 17). Metrics to Make Security Shine Beyond the Numbers. Security Magazine.

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The ROI of Security: Preventing Breaches Leads to Profit and Trust

The ROI of Security: Preventing Breaches Leads to Profit and Trust

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

There are several ways to quantify security ROI, including cost savings from prevented breaches, regulatory compliance, and enhanced business continuity.

At its core, ROI is a financial metric that evaluates the profitability of an investment. In the context of security, ROI refers to the financial benefits gained from investing in security measures relative to the costs incurred. Calculating ROI can be complex in this context due to the intangible nature of many security benefits, such as risk mitigation and enhanced reputation.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about the security of their personal information. Businesses that prioritize security not only differentiate themselves from competitors but also build trust with customers. A strong security posture demonstrates a company’s commitment to protecting customer data, enhancing brand loyalty and attracting new customers.

 

Wood CPP, P. (March 17, 2025). How to Measure Your Security and Resilience ROI. Security Management.

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A Deep Dive Into the Landscape of Gun-Related Incidents Across the United States

A Deep Dive Into the Landscape of Gun-Related Incidents Across the United States

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

While active shooter events—where individuals enter a space with the intent to kill—are relatively rare, the most common gun-related incidents are often the result of personal disputes that escalate into violence. Other frequent incidents include weapons being discovered but not used, as well as shooting threats.

Two of the most powerful predictors of gun violence are:

  1. History of Aggression
    Individuals with a history of aggressive behavior are more likely to engage in violent acts. Prior incidents of aggression should be closely monitored to assess potential risks.
  2. Substance Abuse
    Substance abuse, particularly involving alcohol and drugs, has a strong correlation with violent behavior. This factor should be considered when assessing threats.

GUN RELATED INCIDENTS

In many cases, retailers may not own the parking lot or outdoor spaces surrounding their stores. However, they can still enhance security by installing exterior cameras that monitor these areas. Additionally, considering the placement of in-store cameras, integrating gun detection software into existing security systems, and providing specialized training for security personnel can further improve safety measures.

Source:
Wolfe, C. (February 13, 2025). Retail Spaces Top the List of Gun Violence Targets in New Report. Loss Prevention Magazine.

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Loss Prevention in an Uncertain Economic Outlook

Loss Prevention in an Uncertain Economic Outlook

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

The U.S. economy entered 2025 with momentum, but uncertainty looms as debates over immigration, tariffs, deregulation, and taxes continue to shape the economic outlook. This mix of policy discussions creates a complex and unclear narrative for the future.

Effective retail loss prevention requires a blend of security technologies—such as access control systems, alarm networks, and cybersecurity tools—alongside robust organizational policies and ongoing staff training. However, for these strategies to succeed, leadership must gain full buy-in from employees and continuously refine their approach.

While deregulation and tax cuts could offer a boost, immigration restrictions and tariffs present risks that could negatively impact the economy. Though recent economic data remains strong, the potential for downside risks remains a concern.

The ultimate goal of loss prevention should be to minimize losses before they occur. Achieving this requires a sustainable, proactive program built on three core principles: consistency, visibility, and innovation.

Source:
Wolfe, C. (March 4, 2025). NRF Chief Economist Says Data ‘Remains Strong’ But Public Policy Uncertainties ‘Blur the Economic Outlook’ for 2025. Loss Prevention Magazine.

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Reducing the Imminent Risk of Lethality Through Sensible Gun Laws and a Culture of Safety

Reducing the Imminent Risk of Lethality Through Sensible Gun Laws and a Culture of Safety

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

How Sensible Gun Laws Can Help:

  1. Gun Safety
    • Sensible gun laws can reduce easy access to dangerous weapons.
    • We must establish a culture of gun safety.
  2. Reducing Access
    • Firearm access should be restricted for youth and individuals at risk of harming themselves or others.
  3. Accountability
    • The gun industry must be held accountable. There should be adequate oversight regarding the marketing and sale of guns and ammunition.
  4. Engagement
    • We need to engage responsible gun dealers and owners in finding solutions.
  5. Mandatory Training and Licensing
    • Insist on mandatory training and licensing for gun owners.
  6. Safe Storage
    • Require safe and secure gun storage to prevent unauthorized access.

Addressing the Underlying Contributors to Gun Violence:
To reduce risks and build resilience in individuals, families, and communities, we must focus on these key areas:

  1. Public Health Solutions
    • Gun violence should be recognized as a critical and preventable public health issue.
  2. Comprehensive Solutions
    • Support the creation and implementation of community safety plans that prioritize prevention and intervention.
  3. Trauma, Connection, and Services
    • Expand access to high-quality, culturally competent, and coordinated social, emotional, and mental health services. These services should specifically address the impact of trauma.

Source:
Gun Violence Must Stop. Here’s What We Can Do to Prevent More Deaths. Prevention Institute.

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Response Time Has a Significant Impact on Crisis Outcomes

Response Time Has a Significant Impact on Crisis Outcomes

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services, on the Need for Crisis Management

A well-communicated and effectively executed crisis management plan significantly increases the likelihood of mitigating the effects of a crisis, regardless of the circumstances. The response component of a crisis plan must account for the unpredictable nature of emergencies while providing a structured approach to managing related activities. Developing a plan that enables swift, confident, and appropriate responses is essential for effective crisis resolution.

During a crisis, it is crucial to quickly assess the situation, determine its severity, identify the need for medical, police, or fire response, implement evacuation protocols, secure assets, and communicate efficiently with all relevant agencies through a structured system. A primary objective of crisis management planning is to establish standardized responses for these critical actions, ensuring they can be applied to a wide range of crisis scenarios.

In any crisis, delivering a fast, efficient, and appropriate response is vital. This process should be guided by a well-defined crisis response framework, reinforced by strong communication strategies and resources.

Source:
Brittain, J. (February 24, 2025). AP Fundamentals: Crisis Response. Loss Prevention Magazine.

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People Counting Technology Enhances Security and Provides Key Customer Insights

People Counting Technology Enhances Security and Provides Key Customer Insights

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services, on the Need for Advanced Technology

Recent advancements in machine learning and deep learning have significantly enhanced the capabilities of video analytics, driving increased interest across industries. Along with improved accuracy and efficiency, these technologies have become more cost-effective and accessible. As a result, organizations are looking beyond traditional security applications to leverage video analytics for business optimization and operational efficiency.

People counting and crowd estimation tools initially gained traction among retailers for health and safety applications. Today, with continued technological advancements, these analytics have evolved into essential tools for a wide range of applications.

With people counting analytics, management can access actionable insights while eliminating the need for labor-intensive, manual foot traffic and occupancy tracking. Retail organizations use this data both for real-time responses and to inform strategic business decisions.

Retailers can analyze customer behavior, calculate conversion rates, and assess the ratio of visitors to actual buyers. Beyond sales and marketing insights, people counting tools also enhance store security. By analyzing historical data, management can determine peak hours and seasonal trends to optimize staffing levels.

Additionally, people counting technology enables real-time security alerts. The system can notify security teams of potential risks, such as individuals or groups spending prolonged periods unsupervised in high-value aisles. This allows management to assess whether increased monitoring or intervention is necessary.

Source:
Ebeid, N. (February 25, 2025). 3 Ways to Leverage People Counting for Operational Efficiencies. Loss Prevention Magazine.

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Unforeseen Threats Necessitate Enhanced Security in Educational Institutions

Unforeseen Threats Necessitate Enhanced Security in Educational Institutions

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services, on the Need for More Robust Security in Schools

In an era of evolving threats and unforeseen challenges, ensuring the safety of students, staff, and faculty in K-12 schools is of paramount importance. Security in educational institutions must go beyond traditional measures, adopting a multilayered, multifactor approach that integrates technology, personnel training, and emergency preparedness.

K-12 security professionals can reduce risk by implementing strategies grounded in the core principles of prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. 

Establishing strong partnerships with local law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services—both during simulations and in real-world scenarios—is essential. Collaboration ensures a swift and coordinated response in emergencies, maximizing the effectiveness of preparedness plans.

Whether it’s students remembering not to prop open exterior doors, teachers understanding the appropriate steps to take during emergencies, or school administrators managing communication with parents and first responders—everyone plays a critical role in maintaining a safe school environment.

Source:
Hanson, B. (March 24, 2025). Ballistic-Resistant Solutions for Schools: Trends and Best Practices. Security Magazine.

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