States expand fight against organized retail crime, gift card fraud

Over a dozen U.S. states have passed legislation this year to combat organized retail crime, including creating new criminal offenses, increasing penalties, and establishing task forces. The measures address evolving tactics like cargo theft, gift card fraud, and e-commerce schemes, exemplified by a $1 million seizure in Los Angeles linked to stolen merchandise from brands such as ALO and SKIMS. Shoplifting rates in 2026 rose 4% compared to 2025, with organized theft rings using sophisticated methods like hacking into merchandise delivery systems.