Self-checkout machines have become normal in supermarkets, but one woman went viral after revealing a trick she uses at the checkout to save money.
Her confession sparked debate online, with many people admitting they had seen or tried similar tricks themselves, not realizing it could actually be illegal.
So what was the trick? The woman said her friend would put expensive vegetables like avocados through the machine as cheaper items like brown onions to pay less.
Lawyers quickly responded and said this is considered dishonest behavior because the shopper is intentionally underpaying for items, which legally counts as theft.
They also explained that retailers lose billions each year from self-checkout theft, and the cost often ends up raising grocery prices for everyone else.
If someone is caught, stores may involve security, require payment for the items, issue fines, or in some cases even involve police depending on the value of the goods.
Experts say the message is simple: even if you are still paying something, intentionally scanning items incorrectly is still considered theft.
What seems like a small trick to save a few dollars could end up costing much more if you get caught.
