The Holiday Rush Meets the Security Rush

The holiday season is a whirlwind for businesses, longer hours, bigger crowds, and a flood of temporary employees joining the team. While seasonal help keeps operations running smoothly, it can also create unexpected security gaps that criminals are quick to exploit.

From misplaced keycards to unchecked access to systems, many companies don’t realize how vulnerable they become until it’s too late. The good news? A few simple, proactive steps can keep your business secure through the busiest time of year.

Too Many Hands, Not Enough Control

When holiday staff are hired quickly, security vetting often takes a back seat. Temporary employees may have access to cash registers, stockrooms, or even customer data before background checks are complete.

Solution:

• Run fast-track background screenings, even basic ID and employment verification can deter opportunistic theft.
• Limit access: Give temporary hires only the permissions they truly need, and set auto-expiration dates on access cards or logins.

Shared Logins = Shared Problems

It’s common for seasonal workers to share passwords or POS logins for convenience. Unfortunately, this makes it impossible to trace suspicious activity or fraud later.

Solution:

• Create individual user accounts for every hire, even if they’re only with you for a few weeks. For security alarms, using platforms like alarm.com will allow personal codes for temporary workers and then they can be deleted later.
• Enable two-factor authentication on sensitive systems.

Distractions Create Opportunity

Busy store floors and short-staffed shifts mean employees are focused on service, not surveillance. This distraction is exactly when theft, both internal and external, can spike.

Solution:

• Increase visible security presence during peak hours.
• Position cameras near cash handling areas and stockroom entrances.
• Hold a short, friendly security briefing for all staff before the season kicks off.

Offboarding Often Gets Overlooked

When the holidays end, many companies forget to remove temporary access. A deactivated badge or password left active can lead to problems long after the season ends.

Solution:

• Use a “holiday offboarding checklist” to ensure all keys, badges, and logins are deactivated on an employee’s last day.
• Schedule an end-of-season security review to catch anything missed in the rush.

Peace of Mind Is the Best Gift You Can Give Your Business

The holiday season doesn’t have to mean trading safety for speed. By putting a few simple controls in place, you can keep your operations running smoothly, and securely, all the way into the new year.