Walmart is a popular stop for bargain hunters looking to save money shopping. But did you know there’s been a 50% increase in shoplifters in recent years?
This superstore has many products that thieves target, from everyday necessities to items they can sell for cash.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!1
With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!
This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
Apply for a Discover Cashback Checking account today
Razors
If you’ve visited your local superstore, you might see razors behind protective glass.
Shoplifters are likely to steal razors, especially since razor refills can be pretty pricey. Hair trimmers and electronic razors are also in this category.
Cosmetics
Another item that’s popular to steal from Walmart is any type of cosmetics.
This can include makeup, makeup tools, and even skincare products. Some reasons could be because these items are typically pretty small and have a higher cost.
Over-the-counter medications
Walmart has a wide selection of over-the-counter meds, making them a common target for stealing.
OTC medications range from simple pain relievers to cold relief. Some require identification at checkout, which may explain why people might steal them instead.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Toys
Surprisingly, another popular item to thieve at Walmart is toys.
Shoplifters typically stay away from larger items, like bikes and board games, since they’re hard to steal. Smaller toys and trinkets, especially higher-priced items, are usually what they go after.
Video games
This is another product hiding behind a security case at your local superstore.
Video games, DVDs, and computer games can be targeted during shoplifting. These are popular for reselling since they’re such high-ticket items.
Trending Stories
Cell phone accessories
Thanks to their small size, most cell phone accessories are at risk of being stolen.
This includes cell phone charging blocks, cords, and even phone cases. This is another item people might resell after stealing.
Electronics
Another common thing that thieves like to grab is electronics.
They may target anything from Bluetooth headphones to small cameras during their trip. You might be surprised at what items they can steal in this category.
Clothes
Since Walmart has clothing for babies to adults, many shoplifters target this area of the store.
This superstore has clothing for every season and family member, making it a popular item to steal. They also have packs and sets of multiple clothing items that thieves might go after.
Sunglasses
Surprisingly, sunglasses are commonly stolen at Walmarts everywhere. Perhaps it’s because this item is small and easy to conceal.
Though these aren’t a necessity like others on this list, it could just be for the “thrill” of stealing for some that they choose this item.
Stop overpaying when you shop online
Shopping online has its perks. It's super convenient, but it can be time consuming to find the best deals. Instead of hunting for coupon codes (that don't always work!) and opening tons of browser tabs comparing prices, you can try Capital One Shopping.
Capital One Shopping makes saving money effortless. Just add the browser extension and when you check out, it'll scour the internet for coupon codes to help you save cash. And before you check out at 25+ major retailers, Capital One Shopping will notify you with a friendly pop-up if the item you're buying is available cheaper somewhere else.
Capital One Shopping is free to use and won't show you ads. Add it today and stop overpaying!2
Jewelry
Though higher-cost jewelry is in a case, cubic zirconia and other jewelry are out on full display.
These lower-priced jewelry products have become an easy target for shoplifters. From earrings to bangles, this area is at higher risk of stealing.
Baby formula
It’s only within recent years that baby formula has become such a hot-ticket item, thanks to shortages.
You can often find baby formula behind protective cases to prevent stealing. Some stores have even moved their formula to the front so that employees can keep a better eye on this product.
Detergent
Even detergent isn’t safe from shoplifters.
Costs can add up for both dishwasher and laundry detergent. So it’s no wonder thieves might go after this necessity.
Toilet paper
This product might be shocking due to its size.
However, people still manage to pocket toilet paper and take it out of the store. They might target smaller packages of tissue.
Alcohol
Walmart has a wide selection of alcohol that underage shoppers might go after.
Some might even steal just one can or bottle from a package. Since customers need an ID to buy alcohol, some would rather pocket it than purchase it.
Deli meat
Any type of deli meat or packaged meat is at risk from shoplifters.
These smaller packages are easier to hide, and inflation has increased prices significantly. It’s no wonder this section of Walmart gets targeted often.
Office/school supplies
School and office supplies aren’t usually very expensive, but they can be pretty compact.
This section of Walmart gets targeted by shoplifters for its small items. Families with school children might struggle to keep up with the list of supplies needed each year.
Bottom line
With prices going up in recent years, it seems like shoplifting has become even more commonplace.
However, Walmart has strict security and employees checking receipts at exits to deter this.
They also offer layaway options for certain items if you’re trying to make your paycheck stretch a bit further.
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- Low spend threshold for its welcome offer — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
- Can redeem rewards at an ATM for literal cash
Drawbacks
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Subscribe Today
Want extra-cash moves to come right to you?
Stop browsing endlessly. Get proven ways to earn pocket money, help cover rent, and crush your debt — sent to your inbox daily.
Author Details