Shoppers across the UK are being urged to rethink their behaviour at supermarket self-checkouts after experts revealed a common habit could land them in serious trouble.
Many customers don't realise that failing to properly scan all items - even accidentally - could be treated as theft under UK law. Retailers are increasingly cracking down on these incidents, with some stores issuing fines or even pursuing legal action.
Why This Matters
What might seem like an innocent mistake - forgetting to scan a loose banana or missing an item at the bottom of your trolley - could potentially be interpreted as shoplifting. Supermarkets are investing in sophisticated surveillance systems that can detect these discrepancies.
Consumer rights advocates explain: "The law doesn't distinguish between intentional theft and accidental oversight. If you leave the store without paying for an item, you could technically be prosecuted."
How to Protect Yourself
- Double check your trolley or basket before scanning
- Pay special attention to loose produce and items without barcodes
- If you realise you've missed something, inform staff immediately
- Keep receipts as proof of purchase
Major retailers have reported increasing losses from both accidental and deliberate checkout errors, prompting this renewed warning to shoppers. While most cases of genuine mistakes are resolved without legal action, the potential consequences make this an important issue for all consumers.
