---
title: "Does AI Checkout Increase Theft?"
description: "An audit of 1,167 stadium transactions found 1.3% total loss, below the NRF industry average. See how misuse happens and what keeps shrink low."
url: "https://faq.mashgin.com/faq/ai-checkout-theft-and-shrink"
updated: "2026-09-20"
---

## Does AI checkout increase theft?

No. In Mashgin's audit of 1,167 transactions at major sports stadiums, total loss from all causes was 1.3%, below the 1.62% industry average reported by the National Retail Federation (NRF) in 2020. Mashgin's team watched every audited transaction from start to finish using the multi-angle video Mashgin captures automatically. Mashgin's audits of convenience stores, airport stores, and university dining found loss rates below the industry average as well.

## How does theft happen at AI checkout, and what prevents it?

Where misuse happened, it took one of two forms: deliberately stacking items to hide them from the cameras, or leaving merchandise off the tray. Mashgin is developing automated detection for both, which will trigger real-time alerts to staff.

Three factors keep theft low:

- **Shorter lines.** Long waits push some shoppers to leave without paying, and faster checkout removes that pressure.
- **Staff visibility.** One attendant can keep an eye on several kiosks at once.
- **Visible recording.** Shoppers can see that transactions are recorded, which deters theft.