Consumer confidence fell unexpectedly in January. The tight labor market and concerns about inflation have made Americans cautious about the eeconomy’sdirection.

The most important thing to retailers is the majority of us are less likely to buy products that aren’t necessary. This also means that theft from retail stores is on the rise and, as it has over the last few years, is likely to decrease anytime soon. The increase in retail theft results from the widespread self-checkout lines found in significant box stores such as Walmart or Target. Self-checkout lines are the most common method used by shoppers shoplift.

Shoplifters May See Self-Checkout Lanes as an Opportunity 

There are many reasons that consumers view self-checkout lines as an easy check. Some feel morally justified in taking small items. “If I’m doing the work, and they won’t even bother to pay cashiers, why not?” is a popular argument. Other consumers might feel empowered because of the lack of security or supervision.

Whatever the reason, the theft rate is estimated to be a $100 billion issue for retailers. Unsurprisingly, retailers are examining ways to track theft in self-checkout lines. There are a few most common ways that customers use to rob in self-checkout lanes:

“The “switcheroo” is perhaps the most well-known method. This is a term used when people swap the barcode of one product for a cheaper one. The shoplifter buys crayons and then walks away with a brand-new television.

“The “honest mistake” is another popular technique. Shoppers conceal smaller items within more substantial ones. They also cover up the item they have within their basket. Then, they leave the store without even examining the item. If asked about it, the person will say, “Oh, sorry, didn’t see it there.”

“machine did it. “machine did it” involves concealing the barcode using your hands or hand or even passing the item to a scanner with the item upside down. If the hair-trigger’s weight within the bagging area is dinging, however, there’s still the chance that someone else will be able to bypass the sensor without taking an in-depth look into what’s in the bag.

No, This Isn’t a How-To Blog 

Did I help shoppers who are ethically challenged shoplifts? These techniques are well-known to retailers, and stores employ several ways to identify these types of theft. There are, of course, CCTV cameras that are monitored everywhere. In addition, the person working in the self-checkout section is specifically trained to identify and deter these kinds of thefts.

New technology could also aid retailers in stopping theft from self-checkouts. For instance, Lowe’s recently successfully tested an innovative method of preventing theft without locking up the products. The process utilizes radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to protect items that were taken. It is also used to identify and track stolen items. Some retailers have changed to carts with anti-theft features, which can be locked if a customer leaves the shop with items stolen from the store.

Legal Penalties for Self-Checkout Shoplifting 

Legally you can’t be charged with any crime if you shoplift. Intentionally stealing an expensive item from the pockets of your purse is just as bad as changing the barcode at most from a legal standpoint.

The penalties for shoplifting differ by state as well as the type and value of the stolen item, how long you’ve had a prior criminal record, and other elements. The crime of organized retail (ORC) is when multiple individuals are involved in the theft of the item, or items can also increase the penalties.

It is important to note that shoplifting can also signify intention to rob the store of its merchandise. If you have made an honest mistake and then you forgot about that tiny item in your shopping cart,,n you’re likely to be fine if you pay for the item after it has been brought to your attention.

But, it’s harder to convince the shop (and jurors) that you did not intend to take something from them if this is the 6th time the store has questioned you for not paying for a product or if you have changed the barcode. That’s right, shoplifting to your peril. It will be harder to avoid shortly.