NCJ Number
167459
Journal
Security Journal Volume: 7 Issue: 3 Dated: (October 1996) Pages: 157-167
Date Published
1996
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This report presents the methodology and findings of the 1994 International Crimes Against Businesses Survey (ICBS), which was designed to provide an international comparative overview of business communities' experiences with crime and fraud, as well as the costs entailed, including preventive measures.
Abstract
A total of 7,558 companies were interviewed in the participating countries, excluding Australia (1,000) and South Africa (200). The survey shows that annually a large number of Dutch businesses are victims of crime. Individual businesses are at greater risk than households. The chance of being burglarized is 10 times greater for businesses than private households. Cases of fraud by personnel or corruption occur relatively infrequently; however, 20 percent of entrepreneurs believe that corruption in one form or another occurs often in their sector. This percentage is particularly high in the catering sector (45 percent). The comparison with other countries shows that crime in the retail sector is at an average level in the Netherlands. The percentages for theft, fraud by personnel, and burglaries are relatively high. The number of car thefts is somewhat lower than elsewhere. Generally, there is a correlation between the level of crimes committed against private individuals and businesses. The business community invests considerable amounts in security equipment. In general, the national level of security measures follows the level of criminal damage. In all countries, many of the security measures are taken after the businesses have been victimized. Overall, the survey shows that the Dutch business community has an average crime level compared to other European countries. Security levels are also average. 6 tables and 14 references