Abstract: A method for preventing retail return fraud is implemented by attaching a security tag to a customer's purchased garment at checkout or before the customer leaves the store. The security tag displays text stating that the merchandise cannot be returned to the retail store if the security tag is removed or if the security tag or garment is washed or dry-cleaned. The security tag is attached by a tamper-proof attachment mechanism, such as a loop tie. The security tag is large and ostentatious, and attached in a location on the garment that will discourage the customer from wearing it without removing the security tag. Immediately before attachment, the security tag is stamped by a stamping machine with a code designating the retail store and time and date of purchase, and may optionally be stamped with additional identifying information such as the sale price. If the customer attempts to return the item to the seller and the security device has been altered, the seller refuses to accept return.

Abstract: An anti-theft/anti-fraud system includes a tag assembly that renders a retail item ineligible for merchandise return or refund if tag is removed from the retail item, if the label attached to the front side of tag has been removed or tampered with, or if the retail item is a garment that had been washed or dry-cleaned. The backside of the tag contains the anti-theft/anti-fraud system trademark and a warning message. The label thereon contains the anti-theft/anti-fraud system trademark and code data preventing the item from being returned for refund after the retailers return policy period has passed, or after the item has been washed or dry-cleaned. The tag is attached to a discreet portion of the retail item. If attachment of the tag has no feasible location then a single label is utilized and applied to a discreet portion of the retail item.

Abstract: An anti-theft/anti-fraud system that includes a tag assembly that renders a retail item ineligible for merchandise return or refund in the cases tag is removed from the retail item or where the label attached to the front side of tag has been removed or tampered with, or if the retail item is a garment that has been washed or dry-cleaned. The backside of the tag contains the anti-theft/anti-fraud system trademark and a warning message. The label thereon contains the anti-theft/anti-fraud system trademark and the retail outlet's code data that defines the retail outlet's name, date of purchase and type of purchase, so that the item cannot be returned for refund after the retailer's return policy period has passed, or after the item has been washed or dry-cleaned. The tag is attached to a discreet portion of the retail item. If attachment of the tag has no feasible location then a single label is utilized and applied to a discreet portion of the retail item.