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T Hp following security tips on dealI ing with short change artists are provided through the courtesy of FoxworthGalbraith Lumber Co.

The short change artist depends upon confusion. All kinds of tactics are used to confuse you into giving too much change. A good cashier can learn to recognize when they're being worked by a short change artist.

The first alert is that you feel "uncomfortable"' with the transaction. The "artist" works and talks last. Remember, handling money is almost second nature with a cashier. When you start getting confused or uncomfortable doing it. there's something wrong. So when it happens. shut the register. Tell the customer'Just a moment, please." and call for "register assistance."

Here are a couple of examples of how short change artists might work:

The subject makes a $9.95 purchase, $10.45 including tax. He gives you a $20 bill. While the register is open and you're counting out the change. he says, "Wait a second, I've got the 45 cents give me $10 change." When you give him the $10. he quickly says, "Heck, you might as well give me back my $20 and you just keep the $10." You give him back his $20 and he walks out of the store with the merchandise and his $20 bill.

The subject makes a small purchase and gives you a large bill, say a $20.

September 1987

After getting all, or most of, his change, he suddenly says, "Hey, I've got the right change. Just give me back my $20 and I'll give you the right change" (or small denomination in currency). An accomplice may work with this scheme by coming up with the money at the right time. The artist walks out with the merchandise, part of the changO and his $20 biil.

Each year the LAT oflice receives numerous calls lrom dealers searching for someone who could provide an internal security service to assist them in locating employee fraud or dishonesty. After several years of searching, LAT is offering the Hopper & Hawkins Security Shopping Service as a service to its members because LAT is aware of the need ol its members to monitor employee performance and to prevent loss due to employee theft.

On behalf of LAT we wish to express our sincere appreciation to the William Cameron Co., Tamko Asphalt Products and Home Lumber Co., Austin, for their coordinated efforts in re-roofing a portion of LAT's office building. Ar the request of Frank Bomar, Home Lumber Co., the companies provided the materials at no cost to the association.