When Cell Phones Trigger Store Alarms
Home Security systems are prone to false alarms at one time or another and store security systems are no exception. Some stores do no utilize the new laser security systems and still rely on older magnetic security systems. If you ever stepped in or out of a store and set off a store alarm, then you know this is true. The metal and batteries inside certain cell phones can trigger these magnetic alarms when you pass by them.
The same is true with some car transmitters, people with metal plates inside their body and other personal property that contains magnetizing metal. Another reason for this type of phenomenon to occur is the fact that stores have these magnetic security scanners set to high. Sensitivity factors will also play a part in whether or not certain metallic property can cause false alarms.
Though it does not happen often, when it does it can be embarrassing for the consumer and downright irritating. Blackberries and Droid phones seem to be the bigger culprits in setting of store anti-theft systems and iPads have even been know to trigger a magnetic alarm as well. Store owners are not permitted to subject you to unwarranted search and seizure just because their equipment has failed to work properly. If they stop to search your belongings, you do have rights as a consumer. Privacy laws still apply and stores must have probable cause and this means witnessing a specific event, NOT suspecting one. Unlike forced entry where home security systems are set off, the store cannot detain a customer just for setting off the anti-theft alarm.
There are a number of small electronic devices that can set these magnetic devices to trigger. Magnetism is very much like an electrical field and can set off some older alarms easily. Before entering a store, it’s a good idea to check your pockets or purse for copper jewelry, hearing aids, cell phones, car keys, iPods, and even in some cases shoes. A lot of stores also utilize what’s called “soft tags” that might be accidentally hidden away in a pocket or seam, so it’s also good to check your merchandise before exiting to make sure store clerks have removed any magnetic tags.
Anything that carries an electrically magnetic field charge will set off the machine. This however does not mean that anything wireless would set an alarm to go off. Aside from bringing along your magnetic personality, its best to just reassess yourself to avoid any hassles for you and the store.
