Self-checkout machines were introduced to speed up shopping and offer convenience. But for many shoppers, the experience often turns out to be anything but smooth—and according to legal and retail experts, there are serious reasons to avoid them altogether.
Designed for Cost Savings, Not Customer Convenience
Sylvain Charlebois, director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University, notes that retailers adopted self-checkout primarily to cut labor costs—not to improve customer experience. Companies like Walmart and Target have heavily invested in these systems, aiming to save up to 66% on staffing expenses.
Yet, many customers have disliked self-checkout since its inception. The machines frequently malfunction or require assistance, leading to delays and frustration rather than faster checkouts.
The Alarming Legal Risks of Self-Checkout
Beyond the technical hiccups, self-checkout machines come with hidden legal risks. In recent years, several large retailers have reportedly accused customers of theft—even when no wrongdoing occurred.
Criminal defense attorney Carrie Jernigan issued a public warning on TikTok, explaining that stores such as Walmart are quick to pursue legal action against shoppers who accidentally miss an item at checkout. Whether the error is due to a system glitch or human mistake, some stores are aggressive in treating these incidents as theft.
What Can Happen if You’re Accused
Retailers often rely on surveillance footage to identify the last user of a kiosk when inventory discrepancies arise. If you’re the last person at that machine—even if the error wasn’t yours—you could be held responsible.
According to Jernigan, some individuals have faced charges over minor mistakes. In worst-case scenarios, these charges can carry fines or even jail time of up to a year. Legal costs, emotional stress, and time spent proving your innocence can be overwhelming.
How to Stay Safe: Choose Traditional Checkout
The safest way to protect yourself is to simply avoid self-checkout altogether. Choosing a staffed lane ensures that any transaction errors can be resolved in real time with a cashier present—minimizing the risk of misunderstandings or wrongful accusations.
Stay Informed, Shop Smart
In today’s retail landscape, being a cautious and informed shopper matters more than ever. While self-checkout may seem like a convenient option, the potential risks can far outweigh the benefits. Opt for face-to-face checkouts to ensure a safer, more secure shopping experience.
