Case Of Mistaken Identity Fraud

(This story takes place a few days after the nationwide announcement that a large, well-known retail store had been hacked and that customers who had used credit/debit cards were at risk. I am at the return desk shortly after the store opened on Christmas Eve morning. I have a receipt; the item was purchased two days ago. The cashier looks sleepy and irritated.)

Cashier: “I need to see your ID to process this return.”

Me: *opens wallet and shows ID*

Cashier: “No, no. I need you to take it out so I can scan it.”

Me: “Why?”

Cashier: *uncaring* “I don’t know.”

Me: “Let me speak with a manager, please.”

(Not one, but two similarly irritated managers eventually come to the return desk. I ask why scanning the ID is necessary for a return, and I share my concern that my private information is at risk in light of the recent hacking incident.)

Manager: *shrugs* “Well, if someone’s gonna get your information, there ain’t much you can do but let ’em.”

Me: “…”