Why supermarkets ask to see your ticket when they don't check your purchase?

Showing your receipt as you leave a supermarket has become a common practice across many establishments in the country. While security staff might only glance at the ticket or not compare it closely with your purchases, this procedure is part of internal protocols designed to prevent theft and maintain inventory control.

Security experts explain that the mere presence of staff requesting receipts acts as a deterrent against potential shoplifting. Therefore, the primary goal isn't always to verify every single purchase but to establish visual control within the store and enhance surveillance at exit points.

Regarding personal belongings, stores can only inspect bags or backpacks if there are objective reasons, such as an activated alarm, suspicious behavior, or concrete indications of theft. These inspections must respect the customer's privacy and dignity. Stores cannot force customers to show their belongings without justification, conduct invasive searches, or detain individuals without valid cause.

If a customer believes their rights have been violated, they can request explanations from security personnel and refuse a search if no clear reason exists. They can also document the incident in the establishment's complaint book. For further action, consumers can file a complaint with Indecopi, providing evidence like photos, videos, or testimonies. Authorities emphasize that security protocols must respect customer rights and ensure a comfortable shopping experience.