I’m an ex-Target employee – why it’s the worst store to steal from as there are dark consequences no one talks about

AN EX-Target employee has issued a warning to shoplifters, claiming that security tracks people stealing in their stores.

The woman claimed in a TikTok that people caught stealing could rack up hefty bills and fines, as cameras are always able to see what they take.

The TikTok was posted by user @hoesticia, in response to a comment saying, "teach me how to steal ty."

In response, @hoesticia warns the user to never steal from Target. As a past employee, she is familiar with their punishments and restrictions.

“If you want to continue to go to Target, don’t steal from them,” she said. “Most likely, they already know that you’re stealing. They see you on the cameras. Someone’s following you. Most likely, they’re building a case against you. You’re going to get caught.”

She also alleges that Target security guards go undercover, dressing in plainclothes and following around anyone they might suspect.

In the video's comments, several people confirm @hoesticia's claims, writing that Target purposely allows shoplifters to steal up to a certain amount before taking legal action.

Then, Target gives people an ultimatum- work for them on contract, or go to jail.

“She tellin the truuuuthhh my cousin owes Target $76,000 and is under contract with them now. It was either contract or jail,” one commenter wrote.

This isn't the first time TikTokers have made these claims. In 2020, former Target employee Isiah Arellano said that the chain would wait until individuals stole enough goods to obtain the strictest punishments.

"They will continue letting you steal, all the while they’re documenting the value amount of every single item that you are stealing,” he said in a video. “They will wait until it reaches or exceeds the amount that makes it grand theft larceny, which is an actual felony.” 

Other employees have shared that Target headquarters keeps binders of evidence on file about 'career' and 'repeat' shoplifters, and when those shoppers enter the stores, Target always knows.

Employees have also said that Target doesn't make any floor workers sign non-disclosure agreements, so they don't feel worried about the implications of making TikTok videos after leaving the company.

We reached out to Target for comment, but have yet to receive a response.