I’m a consumer expert – self-checkout security not only stops stealing from Walmart & Kroger, it can save you too

More and more customers are turning to self-checkout machines to scan their groceries at stores like Walmart and Kroger.

This has led to fears that shoppers could be falsely accused of stealing items if they use the technology.

1

As a result, major retailers have installed cameras and workers have been positioned at stations to deal with incidents involving self-checkout.

One View Commerce chief marketing officer Lexy Johnson said protection is critical to both the business and the shopper.

There is a potential risk of fraud when buyers pay for items with their bank card.

She said it’s “crucial” that skimming devices can’t be installed into card readers.

Skimmers are tiny devices that can retrieve credit or debit card details when placed in an ATM.

There is a risk of PIN numbers being stolen if a fake keypad is placed over the original.

Meanwhile, criminologist Adrian Beck said retailers should create “control zones” as part of their efforts to crack down on theft, Vox reported.

In one report, he suggested that it would “ensure that would-be thieves would perceive it both as difficult to steal and as highly likely that if they did offend they would be caught”.

Beck said self-checkouts should be placed away from store exits.

And lanes should have a single entry and exit, and employees should wear high-visibility clothing.

Beck said, “You need to be aware of the importance of staying alert and staying close to customers.”

He warned that it is “crucial” for supervisors to be trained.

Beck told The US Sun that there are several reasons why customers can steal at the self-checkout.

He said customers are wondering, “What are the odds of getting caught?” and saying the only way they’ll apologize is if they’re arrested.

Shadd Maruna, a professor of crime at Queens University in Belfast, believes it’s easier for people to steal computers than to deal with the shame of doing it to another human being.

She said: “Most of us are ashamed of being caught by a fellow human being trying to steal something.

“Removing the human eyes and replacing them with technology makes the process seem less shameful.”