What is a difference between internal theft and pilferage?

The distinction between internal theft and pilferage primarily lies in the value of the items taken. Internal theft generally refers to the theft of larger, more valuable items or significant amounts of property from within an organization, often by employees or insiders. It usually involves a clear intent to steal for personal gain.

On the other hand, pilferage is typically described as the act of stealing smaller items, often done in a more casual or less premeditated manner. The items taken may have a lower monetary value, and the act frequently reflects a habitual or opportunistic theft rather than a calculated crime. This difference in the value of items taken helps inform how an organization might respond to these two types of theft, as internal theft may warrant a more serious investigation and potential criminal action due to its impact on the organization’s finances and trust.

The other options, such as the identity of the perpetrator, the total loss experienced by the employer, or the access to items, do not primarily define the distinction between internal theft and pilferage as clearly as the value of the items does. The focus on value provides a clearer framework for understanding the gravity and nature of the offense, guiding both security policies and management responses.