Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco are removing self-checkouts from their stores due to stricter regulations. The move comes as states and NYC are pushing for stricter regulations on self-checking systems. A survey by Lending Tree found that 69% of people who use them believe they make it easier to steal, and many users have admitted to unintentional theft. The change is aimed at improving customer service and increasing efficiency. However, experts attribute this shift to the rise in shoplifting as the primary reason for their removal. The retailer has been gradually removing these machines from its stores to return to traditional cashier lanes.