Customers admit to stealing while using self-checkout, study says

(NBC, KYMA) - A new study finds that more customers are stealing at the self checkout.

According to research from Lending Tree, 27% of respondents admit they have stolen at least one item while using self-checkout, with many saying they are taking everyday essentials rather than luxury goods.

The survey of more than 2,000 people found that 47% point to unaffordable necessities, while 46% blame rising prices tied to tariffs, as the driving reasons behind their decision to steal.

Self-checkout lanes have long been promoted as a quick and convenient alternative for customers and a way for retailers to reduce labor costs.

But with some stations left unmonitored, or staffed by just one worker overseeing several registers, experts warn that the opportunity for theft is increasing right along with store losses.

Retailers are now grappling with how to keep the convenience of self-checkout while curbing a growing wave of unpaid merchandise.