Receipts may often be perceived as meaningless pieces of paper, but in reality, they are important documents that can be misused by fraudsters.
Receipts frequently end up in trash bins at checkout counters, where they can be found by scammers.
For instance, a fraudster might use it to steal a similar item. They could remove the packaging and simply walk out of the store. If they are stopped by security, they can present the receipt as “proof” of payment.
Problems can also arise from store employees. A cashier who finds someone else's receipt might process a return and transfer the money to an accomplice. Alternatively, they might add extra items to the receipt that an inattentive customer will pay for, keeping those items for themselves.
Fraudsters can use a receipt for extortion as well. If a customer paid by card, scammers can use the information from the receipt (such as name, surname, or part of the card number) to contact them pretending to be from the bank, deceitfully gaining access to their funds.
Moreover, a receipt is a guarantee. If a purchase is unsuitable or of poor quality, returning the item is much easier with a receipt. Without it, more time will be spent proving the purchase took place.
Receipts also help save money. They can be used to participate in store promotions, earn cashback, or receive discounts. If you discard the receipt, outsiders can take advantage of these bonuses.
Check your receipts after payment. Sometimes there can be mistakes: an item is scanned twice, the price at the register is higher than what’s displayed on the shelf, or a discount wasn’t applied. In such cases, you can immediately contact the store management for a recalculation.
Be vigilant with your receipts. Take them with you, check them on the spot, and don’t throw them away unnecessarily to avoid giving scammers a chance to misuse your information.