NEW YORK (CBS) -- The bad economy has been particularly hard on retailers, but now they are getting hit again -- this time by shoplifters. There has been a shoplifting surge across the country.

It's the season to give, but because of the bad economy, more and more people are taking instead, walking right out of stores without ever paying for the merchandise in their pockets.

In an effort to deter theft, a mall on Staten Island has even started displaying mug shots of repeat shoplifters on video screens.

"You have bags, shopping bags and you'll see people drop it straight into the bags," store manager Steve Lee said.