Electronic article surveillance

Definition
Electronic article surveillance (EAS) is a technological method used to prevent shoplifting from retail stores or pilferage of books from libraries. Special tags are affixed to merchandise or books. These tags are removed or deactivated by the clerk when the item is properly bought or checked out. At the exits of the store, a detection system sounds an alarm or otherwise alerts the staff when it senses an active tag. For high-value goods that are to be manipulated by the patrons, wired alarm clips may be used instead of tags.