Beware of The Self-Service Checkout Scam Targeting Older Adults

Self-service checkout lanes offer convenience for shoppers, allowing them to quickly scan, bag, and pay for their items. However, a new and deceptive scam targeting older adults is making its way through these self-checkout areas. While this scam was first reported in San Mateo, California, it's important to be aware of it. Scammers often move from one area to another, and similar tactics can appear in other communities. This scam is designed to exploit the kindness and trust of older adults, and it’s crucial for both older adults and their caregivers to be aware of how it works and how to avoid becoming victims.

How the Scam Works The scam is designed to exploit trust and create distractions, all while fleecing the victim for goods. It is a coordinated effort by a group of deceptive individuals. Here’s how the scam usually unfolds: Step 1: Building Rapport and Gaining Trust One of the suspects approaches an elderly shopper at the self-checkout station. They strike up a conversation with the goal of creating a sense of trust. Once rapport is established, the scammer will ask the elderly person for a favor, specifically, to purchase an item for them. They may claim that they are unable to pay for it themselves, explaining that they or their family urgently need the item. The items they ask for are often essentials, like food or baby supplies such as baby formula, which can make the request seem more sincere and harder to refuse.

Step 2: The Distraction and Sneaky Scanning While the elderly shopper is focused on completing the transaction for the item they've been asked to purchase, another member of the scam group takes advantage of the distraction. This person quickly scans multiple items which are added to the victim's transaction without their knowledge.

In some cases, the total value of the added items can exceed $1,000, making it a significant financial loss for the unsuspecting victim.

How to Protect Yourself from Self-Service Checkout Scams

If someone asks you to pay for an item, no matter how essential it seems, politely decline. You are under no obligation to assist strangers at checkout, and legitimate shoppers in need can speak to store staff or community organizations for help. Remember, scammers often rely on manipulating your compassion. You can use scripts like “I'm sorry. I don’t have extra money right now, but there are community organizations that can help with food or supplies. The store staff might know who to contact.” “My son usually handles my finances. He's in law enforcement (even if he isn't) and he’s very strict about how I use my card, so I can’t make extra purchases.” “Let me finish what I’m doing here first. If you need help, the store staff over there might be able to assist you.” These scripts aim to be non-confrontational but protective, giving older adults the confidence to say “no” while still offering kindness and redirecting the person to legitimate help if needed. Make sure you see the scanning device even when you are talking to someone. Don't let it be behind you even if someone tries to start a conversation. If the scanner ends up behind you, or if your focus shifts away for even a few seconds, it creates an opportunity for someone else to quietly scan extra items or interfere with your transaction without your knowledge."

Choose a Self-Checkout Station with Visible Security Cameras Before using a self-checkout lane, take a moment to look around and make sure the area is monitored by visible security cameras. Scammers are far less likely to target areas where surveillance is clearly in place. Cameras not only deter theft and fraud but also provide video evidence in case anything goes wrong during your transaction.

If you're unsure whether a self-checkout station is under surveillance, don’t hesitate to ask a store employee. Most modern retail stores have cameras in these areas, but some locations may have better coverage than others.

Always Review Your Receipt Before Leaving the Store

After completing your purchase at the self-checkout, take a moment to carefully review your receipt before you leave the store. Check that the items listed and the total amount charged match what you actually scanned and paid for.

Scammers may add extra items without your knowledge, so reviewing your receipt on the spot allows you to catch any discrepancies immediately. If you notice unfamiliar items or unexpected charges, alert a store employee right away. Final Thoughts

Self-service checkout lanes offer a convenient way to shop, but they also create opportunities for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers—especially older adults who may be targeted because of their kindness. By taking these simple but effective precautions, older adults can continue to enjoy the convenience of self-checkout lanes while protecting themselves from fraud. Your awareness and vigilance are your best defense.

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This article was made by  Elder Love USA. As the only nonprofit agency in California offering home care services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate affordable in-home care.   All caregivers undergo thorough background checks and training with certification.   Our rates are lower than other providers thanks to partnerships, donations, grants, and revenue from our cleaning program.   Our caregivers can assist with personal care, shopping, cooking, transportation, housekeeping, and case management.   We proudly serve Riverside County, CA, San Diego County, CA, San Bernardino County, CA, Orange County, CA, Imperial County, CA, and Phoenix, AZ. 

If you’d like to learn more about how our services can benefit you or your loved one, contact us today.

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