Self-checkout kiosks are a divisive issue for shoppers—some love the speed and privacy, others resent doing the work themselves. But one group seems to benefit more than anyone: shoplifters.
In response to ongoing retail theft concerns, Target has implemented a 10-item limit at its self-checkout stations in hopes of curbing losses. While Target says this policy isn’t new and that it doesn’t plan to eliminate self-checkouts altogether, it comes as high-profile theft cases continue to make headlines.
One particularly shocking case involved a California woman who stole more than $60,000 worth of merchandise from Target by using self-checkout machines over the course of 100 visits. Incidents like this have retailers nationwide reevaluating how effective and secure self-check kiosks really are.
Some retail experts and store employees say the kiosks are easy targets for theft through techniques like “skip scanning,” where an expensive item is bagged but not scanned. Others have reported tricks involving label swapping or using children as distractions.
Despite advances in surveillance and security, experts say it’s difficult to outsmart determined thieves. “Humans are always going to find a way,” noted one retail partner. “The second we catch one trick, they’ve already moved on to another.”
The balance for stores is tricky—self-checkouts reduce staffing needs, but only if theft doesn’t erase the savings. With growing complaints and security risks, some believe the era of self-checkout may be short-lived if theft remains rampant.
For now, Target is holding the line with its 10-item rule, hoping to speed up lines, reduce losses, and keep the option available for customers who prefer it.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
May 7, 2025
