Why do stores want our info?

[Your604]

Some stores ask for name, phone number, etc when I want to make a refund or exchange, and some don't. What's the purpose of that?

Do you refuse to give it?

[maiyuu]

I think it's to deter people who may be constantly returning items did bad reasons. An example, I remember how at H&M, there was a case where someone stole items from H&M and then return them later wanting a "refund" even though they never really bought the item. It seems to be to deter theft, etc.

I don't think I've had to return anything before but I can see why they would ask. Especially if it's for an electronics store or some big purchase items

[torontogal12]

They ask it to flag serial returners. When I worked at Zellers we had a paper book where we listed the info of people who consistently returned things with no receipt, etc and if they kept doing it they were denied.

They also want to know where most their customers live so they can build stores in their neighbourhood

[Dan in Canada]

I was told for refunds it is to track who is returning items to deter someone from constantly returning things or even if they are stolen (even though you have to have the receipt). For everything else it is usually for marketing purposes

[Your604]

Thanks for the responses. I've heard a manager tell a customer before that they use the data for audits. I'm not sure how works. Have you guys heard of that before?

[torontogal12]

Ah yes

The audit is a head office thing. It is to check if staff that is stealing things off the shelves and returning them for cash.

Thanks for the responses. I've heard a manager tell a customer before that they use the data for audits. I'm not sure how works. Have you guys heard of that before?

[Bubbelinchen]

not sure what the phone number can do, sometimes i'm so annoyed that i give a fake phone number...

[sweet sparrow]

With all the identity theft, store systems being hacked into, etc., I'm a bit nervous with giving out my information so they can keep it on file indefinitely or until someone sells it somewhere.

[Ciel]

Depending on the store, at cash, I don't always give my postal code info.
Now for returns, you really don't have an opt-out option because store policy requires your id, info, etc. That is why it's good to know for which things it's worth your time to go back to return items and which items you take the budget hit as a life experience in shopping.

[padyofurniture]

I usually give out my old postal code when stores ask for it.