CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A report from Lending Tree shows not many will admit to stealing while scanning their own items -- but those who do, don't have plans to stop.
The report shows 15% of self-checkout users confess to purposely stealing. While 60% of those who have stolen said they felt sorry, 44% said they would likely steal while using self-check out machines again.
The self-reported value of the stolen goods is $60 on average.
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Of those who said they would steal in the future, 46% would target the more expensive in their cart. Meanwhile, about 37% said they would help themselves to essentials like food, water or health care goods.
Arguably, the standout piece of this report, is when it comes down to income: Those stealing the most are making the most.
The survey cited 18% of six-figure earners say they've stolen at self-checkout.
Compare that to the 14% of people stealing that are in one of two earning categories: People earning less than $35,000 or people making somewhere between $50,000 and $74,999.
Contact Kia Murray at kmurray@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
WCNC Charlotte's Where's The Money series is all about leveling the playing in the Carolinas by helping others and breaking down barriers. WCNC Charlotte doesn't want our viewers to be taken advantage of, so we’re here to help. Watch previous stories where we ask the question “Where’s the Money” in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.