Fraud detection device and program

Abstract

Effectively detect fraudulent product registrations. [Solution] The fraud detection device comprises a first interface, a second interface, and a processing circuit. The first interface is capable of communicating with a sensor that detects an object. The second interface is capable of communicating with a registration device. The processing circuit acquires detection information of the object via the first interface, acquires product registration information via the second interface, and makes a fraud determination regarding product registration based on the detection information and the product registration information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a fraud detection device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In commercial facilities such as supermarkets, a self-checkout type POS (Point Of Sales) terminal is used for customers to perform operations from product registration to settlement processing. In the self-checkout type POS terminal, there is a device that detects fraud based on whether a product has been scanned or not.

[0003] When a customer scans a product using a registration device other than a fixed scanner such as a handheld scanner, it may be erroneously detected that the product has not been scanned.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique for appropriately detecting fraud in product registration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] <In one embodiment, the fraud detection device comprises a first interface, a second interface, and a processing circuit. The first interface is capable of communicating with a sensor that detects an object. The second interface is capable of communicating with a registration device. The processing circuit acquires detection information of the object via the first interface, acquires product registration information via the second interface, and performs fraud determination regarding product registration based on the detection information and the product registration information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of a fraud detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a POS terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view of a POS terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a POS terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the fraud detection device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the data structure of product registration information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the information processing procedure by the fraud detection device according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure for information processing related to the setting of permission information by the fraud detection device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure for processing information related to fraud detection by the fraud detection device according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Several embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of the parts in the drawings used in the following description of embodiments may have been changed as appropriate. Also, for illustrative purposes, some components may be omitted from the drawings used in the following description of embodiments.

[0009] (Embodiment) The following explanation uses a store that sells goods as an example. The store is assumed to be a physical store. Goods are tangible products. Services are services provided to customers. A store may primarily sell tangible goods, primarily sell services, or provide both goods and services. For example, a store may be a convenience store, supermarket, home improvement store, restaurant, or gym, but is not limited to these.

[0010] A transaction involving goods or services is the exchange of money between a customer and a store in connection with the store's provision of goods or services. From the store's perspective, the transaction includes the sale of goods. From the customer's perspective, the transaction includes the purchase of goods.

[0011] For example, a store is operated by a business operator. The business operator can be of any type. For example, a business operator may operate multiple stores. The term "business operator" includes not only the business operator itself but also a group of businesses. A group of businesses is a group that operates stores recognized as a chain. For example, a group of businesses is a group that operates stores using the same name. A group of businesses may also include franchisees in which the business operator is involved as a franchisor.

[0012] (Example configuration) Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a fraud detection system S. The fraud detection system S is a system located in store X. The fraud detection system S comprises a POS terminal 1, a fraud detection device 2, and a camera 3. The POS terminal 1, the fraud detection device 2, and the camera 3 are connected to each other via a network NA so that they can communicate with one another. For example, the network NA may be a LAN (Local Area Network), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), etc. The network NA may include a wireless network or a wired network. The fraud detection device 2 and the camera 3 may also be physically connected via USB (Universal Serial Bus), etc.

[0013] The fraud detection system S may also refer to a system that includes at least two of the following devices: a POS terminal 1, a fraud detection device 2, and a camera 3. The term "device" includes electronic equipment. Note that the POS terminal 1 and the fraud detection device 2 are physically common and may operate on the same hardware. In this case, the functions implemented by the processors of the POS terminal 1 and the fraud detection device 2 may be implemented by a single device.

[0014] Figure 1 shows an example where the fraud detection system S is equipped with one POS terminal 1, but the fraud detection system S may be equipped with multiple POS terminals, including POS terminal 1. The configuration of multiple POS terminals may be the same as that of POS terminal 1. Figure 1 also shows an example where the fraud detection system S is equipped with one camera 3, but the fraud detection system S may be equipped with multiple cameras, including camera 3. The configuration of multiple cameras may be the same as that of camera 3.

[0015] POS terminal 1 is a device that processes transactions at store X. POS terminal 1 is primarily used by customers of store X. The operators of POS terminal 1 are primarily customers. Customer may be read as user, operator, or person. For example, POS terminal 1 has a product registration function. POS terminal 1 processes the registration of one or more products that are the subject of a transaction through its product registration function. POS terminal 1 is an example of a registration machine.

[0016] Hereinafter, the registration of a product is also referred to as product registration. The product that is the subject of a transaction is also referred to as the transaction target product. Product registration is to register a product as a transaction target product. For example, product registration includes adding data related to the transaction target product to the data related to the transaction. Adding data includes recording data. The data related to a transaction can include data related to the transaction target product for each transaction target product for one transaction. The data related to a transaction is hereinafter referred to as product registration information. The data related to the transaction target product is data about the details of the transaction target product. The data related to the transaction target product is also referred to as transaction target product data. The transaction target product data is an example of product registration information about the transaction target product.

[0017] The transaction target product data includes all or part of the registration date and time, the registration device, the product code of the transaction target product, the name of the transaction target product, the price of the transaction target product, the points of the transaction target product, and the amount of the transaction target product. The information related to the transaction target product may include information other than these. The registration date and time is information indicating the date and time when the transaction target product was registered via the registration device. The registration date and time may be, for example, the date and time when the product code of the transaction target product was read via the registration device. The registration device is information indicating the registration device on which the transaction target product was registered. The information indicating the registration device may be information indicating the type of the registration device on which the transaction target product was registered. The types of registration devices include, for example, a fixed scanner, a handheld scanner, and a touch panel. The fixed scanner is arranged inside the main body of the POS terminal 1. The fixed scanner reads the barcode displayed on the product obscured by the operator in front of the scanner window. The handheld scanner is used while being held by the operator. The handheld scanner reads the barcode displayed on the product approached by the operator. The touch panel accepts a touch operation by the operator. The touch operation includes an operation of selecting the transaction target product from the list of products displayed on the touch panel. The information of the registration device may include registration device identification information that can identify the registration device. The registration device is an example of a registration unit.

[0018] The product code of the transaction target product is identification information that can uniquely identify the transaction target product. The product code is, for example, a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code. The name of the transaction target product is the product name, etc. of the transaction target product. The price of the transaction target product is the price per unit of the transaction target product. The quantity of the transaction target product is the number of transaction target products included in one transaction. The amount of the transaction target product is the total price for the quantity of the transaction target product. The name of a product is also called the product name.

[0019] The product registration information may include the payment amount. The payment amount is the amount of payment for a transaction paid by the customer according to the selected payment method. The payment amount is the same as the billed amount.

[0020] The product registration information is stored, for example, in a transaction management server that manages each transaction. The transaction management server may be the fraud detection device 2 or a server different from the fraud detection device 2. The transaction management server may be a server used in cloud services.

[0021] For example, the POS terminal 1 has a settlement function. The POS terminal 1 processes the settlement of a transaction based on the product registration information by means of the settlement function. Settlement is the payment for a transaction. Settlement includes the meaning of accounting. The completion of settlement by the POS terminal 1 includes the meaning of the conclusion of a transaction.

[0022] The settlement methods for the settlement of a transaction include offline settlement and online settlement. Offline settlement is a settlement that does not require the POS terminal 1 to cooperate with other devices via the network NA. For example, offline settlement is settlement by cash, gift certificates, etc. Online settlement is a settlement executed by the POS terminal 1 in cooperation with other devices via the network NA. For example, online settlement is credit card settlement, electronic money settlement, debit card settlement, code settlement, etc.

[0023] POS terminal 1 is primarily operated by the customer. In response to the operator's input, POS terminal 1 processes the transaction by performing registration processing related to the registration of the goods to be traded and settlement processing related to the accounting of the payment for the registered goods.

[0024] The fraud detection device 2 is a device capable of communicating with POS terminal 1 and camera 3 via the network NA. If the fraud detection system S has multiple POS terminals, the fraud detection device 2 is a device capable of communicating with multiple POS terminals, including POS terminal 1, via the network NA. If the fraud detection system S has multiple cameras, the fraud detection device 2 is a device capable of communicating with multiple cameras, including camera 3, via the network NA.

[0025] Fraud detection device 2 may be a dedicated device, or it may be a desktop PC (Personal Computer), notebook PC, tablet PC, or smartphone. Fraud detection device 2 is an example of an information processing device that processes information for detecting fraud in product registration.

[0026] Camera 3 is, for example, an overhead camera mounted on top of POS terminal 1. Camera 3 takes an overhead shot of the shooting area. The shooting area is, for example, the area including POS terminal 1 and the operator of POS terminal 1. For example, camera 3 obtains an image by photographing an object from above. The object includes, for example, the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1. The object includes, for example, an object such as a product registered by POS terminal 1. Camera 3 includes a shooting device such as a video camera or a still camera. Camera 3 is an example of a shooting unit that photographs the shooting area. Camera 3 outputs the captured image to the fraud detection device 2. The captured image shows a video consisting of a series of captured images obtained in chronological order based on the shooting by camera 3. Camera 3 is an example of a sensor that detects an object. The captured image is an example of object detection information.

[0027] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment. The POS terminal 1 is also called a self-checkout type POS terminal, checkout device, or self-checkout device.

[0028] POS terminal 1 includes a main unit 100, a stand 201 for placing unregistered items, a stand 301 for placing registered items, a stand 302 for temporarily placing registered items, and an arm 303 for hanging bags containing registered items. The stand 201 for placing unregistered items is also called a shopping basket stand. The stand 301 for placing registered items is also called a bagging stand. The stand 302 for temporarily placing registered items is also called a temporary stand.

[0029] The main unit 100 includes a touch panel 101, a scanner window 102, a handheld scanner 103, a receipt printing slot 104, a card slot 105, a coin tray 106, a change tray 107, a banknote insertion slot 108, a banknote output slot 109, and an alarm lamp 110.

[0030] The touch panel 101 displays various screens to inform the operator of various information. These screens partially constitute a GUI (graphical user interface), and the touch panel 101 accepts touch inputs for operating the GUI. In other words, the touch panel 101 is both a display device and an input device.

[0031] The scanner window 102 is formed by covering an opening in the main body 100 with transparent resin or glass. The scanner window 102 allows an item held in front of it by the operator to be scanned by a fixed scanner located inside the main body 100.

[0032] The handheld scanner 103, when held by the operator and brought close to a barcode displayed on a product, reads the barcode and outputs the barcode information it represents.

[0033] The receipt issuing slot 104 is a slit-shaped opening for ejecting receipts to the outside of the main body 100.

[0034] The card slot 105 is a slit-shaped opening into which the operator inserts a credit card for payment purposes into the main unit 100.

[0035] The coin tray 106 receives coins inserted by the operator. An opening is formed in the bottom surface of the coin tray 106, and the coins received by the coin tray 106 are taken into the main body 100 through the opening.

[0036] The change tray 107 receives coins dispensed from the main unit 100 as change, etc.

[0037] The banknote insertion slot 108 is a slit-shaped opening for taking banknotes inserted by the operator into the main body 100.

[0038] The banknote dispensing slot 109 is a slit-shaped opening for dispensing banknotes from the main body 100 as change, etc. The banknote dispensing slot 109 holds the banknotes with a portion of them protruding outside the main body 100.

[0039] The alarm lamp 110 performs lighting and flashing operations for various alarms.

[0040] Figure 3 is a top view of the POS terminal 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a top view showing the operator registering products using POS terminal 1. The operator stands in front of POS terminal 1 and registers products. The operator stands facing the main body 100 of POS terminal 1 and performs the product registration operation. The product registration operation includes scanning products via the fixed scanner 115. The product registration operation includes scanning products via the handheld scanner 103. The product registration operation includes inputting information about the products being traded via the touch panel 101. A shopping basket stand 201 is located to the right of the main body 100, and a bagging table 301 and a temporary storage table 302 are located to the left of the main body 100. When registering products, the operator moves the products from the shopping basket stand 201 to the bagging table 301 and the temporary storage table 302. The position where the shopping basket stand 201 is located relative to the main body 100 is also called the upstream side, and the position where the bagging table 301 and the temporary storage table 302 are located relative to the main body 100 is also called the downstream side. For example, when an operator registers a product, they move the product from the upstream to the downstream side.

[0041] The main body 100 of the POS terminal 1 includes a readable area Ara and a passage detection area Arb. The readable area Ara is the area in which a barcode can be read by a fixed scanner when an operator holds the barcode of a product over the scanner window 102. The passage detection area Arb is the area in which an object can be detected by a camera 3 or the like. The passage detection area Arb is, for example, the area in which the passage of a product can be detected when an operator moves a product from the upstream side to the downstream side. The passage detection area Arb may be the same area as the readable area Ara, or it may be a larger area than the readable area Ara. The passage detection area Arb may be the same area as the shooting area of ​​the camera 3, or it may be a smaller area than the shooting area.

[0042] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of POS terminal 1. In Figure 4, elements identical to those shown in Figure 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0043] In addition to the aforementioned touch panel 101, handheld scanner 103, and alarm lamp 110, the main unit 100 includes a speaker 111, processor 112, main memory unit 113, auxiliary memory unit 114, fixed scanner 115, printer 116, change dispenser 117, credit card reader 118, electronic money reader / writer 119, and communication interface 120.

[0044] The processor 112, the main memory unit 113, and the auxiliary memory unit 114 are connected by a transmission line to form a computer for controlling the POS terminal 1.

[0045] The processor 112 is the central part of the POS terminal 1. The processor 112 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 1. For example, the processor 112 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. Based on various information processing programs such as the operating system, firmware, and application programs stored in the main storage unit 113 and the auxiliary storage unit 114, the processor 112 performs information processing to control each part in order to realize various functions of the POS terminal 1.

[0046] The processor 112 is an example of a processing circuit that performs multiple processes by multiple functions. The processing circuit includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes by multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these.

[0047] The main memory unit 113 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. The main memory unit 113 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 113 stores a portion of the information processing program described above in the read-only memory area. The main memory unit 113 may also store data necessary for the processor 112 to perform processing to control each part in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 113 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area for the processor 112.

[0048] The auxiliary storage unit 114 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The auxiliary storage unit 114 may include well-known storage devices such as EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), HDD (hard disk drive), or SSD (solid state drive). The auxiliary storage unit 114 stores data used by the processor 112 in performing various processes, as well as data generated by the processing performed by the processor 112. The auxiliary storage unit 114 may also store application programs.

[0049] The auxiliary storage unit 114 stores the product master 1141. The product master 1141 contains product information for each product. The product information includes various information about the product, such as the product code, product identification information, price, and product name. The data in the product master 1141 can be updated whenever product information is added, deleted, or updated.

[0050] The auxiliary storage unit 114 stores product registration information 1142. The product registration information 1142 includes product registration information for each transaction. The product registration information includes the registration date and time, registration device, product code of the traded product, name of the traded product, price of the traded product, number of traded products, and all or part of the amount of the traded product.

[0051] Speaker 111 is a device capable of outputting sound under the control of POS terminal 1. Speaker 111 is an example of an audio output device.

[0052] The fixed scanner 115 acquires a product code for identifying the product. The fixed scanner 115 captures an image of a barcode or two-dimensional code, etc., held in front of the scanner window 102, and then identifies the data represented by the barcode or two-dimensional code, etc., through image processing. The fixed scanner 115 optically reads the barcode or two-dimensional code, etc., held in front of the scanner window 102 using a laser beam or the like. The fixed scanner 115 may also identify the product using object recognition technology based on the image characteristics of the product itself. The fixed scanner 115 may also acquire data stored in a wireless tag via wireless communication.

[0053] The printer 116 includes a receipt printer and a journal printer. The receipt printer issues various types of documents by printing various information onto receipt paper. These documents include receipts showing the details of commercial transactions and credit slips related to credit card payments. The documents issued by the receipt printer are ejected from the receipt printing slot 104 to the outside of the main unit 100. The journal printer prints journal data containing the information printed on the receipt paper by the receipt printer onto journal paper. The journal paper is retained inside the main unit 100 unless removed by a maintenance worker.

[0054] The change dispenser 117 comprises a coin safe for storing coins by denomination and a banknote safe for storing banknotes by denomination. The change dispenser 117 takes in coins inserted into the coin tray 106, identifies the denomination, and stores them in the coin safe by denomination. The change dispenser 117 takes in banknotes inserted into the banknote slot 108, identifies the denomination, and stores them in the banknote safe by denomination. In response to a dispensing command from the processor 112, the change dispenser 117 dispenses the coins or banknotes stored in the coin safe or banknote safe from the change tray 107 or the banknote outlet 109. A well-known automatic change dispenser can be used as such a change dispenser 117.

[0055] The credit card reader 118 reads the data recorded on the credit card inserted by the operator into the card slot 105. The credit card reader 118 corresponds to a reading device.

[0056] The electronic money reader / writer 119 is equipped with, for example, an NFC (near-field communication) communication unit and reads data from a nearby electronic money card via wireless communication. The electronic money reader / writer 119 also writes data from a nearby electronic money card via wireless communication.

[0057] The communication interface 120 includes various interfaces that enable communication between the POS terminal 1 and other devices via a network, according to a predetermined communication protocol. For example, the communication interface 120 enables communication between the POS terminal 1 and an external device via the network NA.

[0058] The hardware configuration of POS terminal 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. POS terminal 1 allows for the omission and modification of the above-described components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0059] This section describes the product registration process performed by processor 112. The processor 112 performs product registration processing, for example, based on user operations on the POS terminal 1. Specifically, the processor 112 refers to the product master and obtains product information for the product corresponding to the product code, based on the fact that the product code of the product to be traded has been scanned by the user via the fixed scanner 115 or the handheld scanner 103. The product information includes data such as the product code, product name, and product price. The product corresponding to the product code is also called the product to be traded. The processor 112 refers to the product master and obtains product information for the product corresponding to the product code, based on the fact that the user has operated the touch panel 101 and entered information about the product to be traded by selecting a preset key or the like.

[0060] The processor 112 may also perform product registration processing in cooperation with a store server or a cloud server. In this case, the processor 112 outputs a product registration request to the server. The server retrieves product information from the product master based on the product code included in the product registration request and saves the product information as registered product information. The server outputs the registered product information to the POS terminal 1. The processor 112 saves the registered product information.

[0061] The processor 112 stores product information of the traded product as registered product information in the auxiliary storage unit 114. The processor 112 stores information indicating the registration date and time as registered product information in the auxiliary storage unit 114. The processor 112 stores information indicating the registration device as registered product information in the auxiliary storage unit 114. The information indicating the registration device indicates the type of registration device on which the product code of the traded product was scanned. When the product code of the traded product is scanned by the user via the fixed scanner 115, the processor 112 stores information indicating "fixed scanner" as the information indicating the registration device. When the product code of the traded product is scanned by the user via the handheld scanner 103, the processor 112 stores information indicating "handheld scanner" as the information indicating the registration device. When information of the traded product is entered by the user via the touch panel 101, the processor 112 stores information indicating "touch panel" as the information indicating the registration device.

[0062] The processor 112 may also obtain the product code of the product being traded by scanning the RFID tag via an RFID reader at the user's request, and obtain product information for the product corresponding to the product code. In this case, the processor 112 may store information indicating "RFID reader" as information indicating the registered device. The processor 112 may also obtain product information for a product based on an image of the product taken by the user via a camera. In this case, the processor 112 may store information indicating "camera" as information indicating the registered device.

[0063] The processor 112 outputs the registered product information of the product to the fraud detection device 2 each time a product to be traded is registered.

[0064] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the fraud detection device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0065] The fraud detection device 2 includes a processor 21, ROM (Read Only Memory) 22, RAM (Random Access Memory) 23, a sensor interface 24, and a communication interface 25, etc.

[0066] The processor 21, ROM 22, RAM 23, sensor interface 24, and communication interface 25 are connected in a way that enables communication.

[0067] The processor 21 is the central part of the fraud detection device 2. The processor 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the fraud detection device 2. The processor 21 loads the programs stored in the ROM 22 into the RAM 23. By executing the programs loaded into the RAM 23, the processor 21 makes it possible to perform various processes. For example, the processor 21 is a CPU or a GPU, but is not limited to these.

[0068] The processor 21 is an example of a processing circuit that performs multiple processes using multiple functions. The processing circuit includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes using multiple functions.

[0069] ROM22 is a non-volatile memory in which control programs and control data are pre-stored. The control programs and control data stored in ROM22 are pre-loaded according to the specifications of the tamper detection device 2.

[0070] RAM23 is volatile memory. RAM23 temporarily stores data being processed by processor 21. RAM23 stores various application programs based on instructions from processor 21. RAM23 may also store data necessary for the execution of application programs and the execution results of application programs.

[0071] RAM23 stores, for example, product registration information. For example, each time a product is registered at POS terminal 1, processor 21 obtains product registration information from POS terminal 1 via communication interface 25. Each time product registration information is obtained, processor 21 saves the product registration information to RAM23.

[0072] RAM23 stores, for example, permission information. Permission information is information used to determine fraud regarding product registration. Fraud determination indicates the determination of missing product registrations. Fraud determination includes, for example, determining fraud if there are missing product registrations. Fraud determination also includes determining no fraud if there are no missing product registrations. Permission information is an example of the determination conditions for fraud determination. The determination conditions for fraud determination are also called fraud determination conditions. Fraud determination conditions are conditions for determining that there is fraud regarding product registration. Meeting the fraud determination conditions includes determining that there is fraud. For example, the absence of permission information is an example of a fraud determination condition related to permission information. Fraud detection device 2 sets permission information based on product registration information. Permission information is, for example, information for permitting the entry and exit of an object to a predetermined area. Granting permission includes not determining that there is fraud. The predetermined area is, for example, a passage detection area. The predetermined area may also be a readable area. The predetermined area can be set in advance by an administrator, etc. Permission information is information set when a product is registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. The authorization information may also be information indicating that the product was registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. The authorization information may also be information indicating that the entry and exit of an object into a designated area is permitted. For example, if authorization information is set, the fraud detection device 2 will not make a fraud determination even if there is no product registration information between the entry and exit of the object into the designated area.

[0073] Permission information is, for example, a permission flag. For example, a permission flag is a flag that indicates permission for an object to enter and exit a predetermined area. A permission flag may also be a flag that indicates that the item was registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. A permission flag is 1-bit information for identifying whether or not permission is granted for an object to enter and exit a predetermined area. A permission flag may also be 1-bit information for identifying whether or not the item was registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. For example, the fraud detection device 2 sets the permission flag when it permits the object to enter and exit a predetermined area. Setting the permission flag includes setting the permission flag to "1". Setting the permission flag is an example of setting permission information. If it does not permit the object to enter and exit a predetermined area, the fraud detection device 2 clears the permission flag. Clearing the permission flag includes setting the permission flag to "0". The fraud detection device 2 may set the permission flag if the item was registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. The fraud detection device 2 may clear the permission flag if the item was registered by a fixed scanner.

[0074] The sensor interface 24 is connected to the camera 3 for object detection in a communicative manner. The sensor interface 24 is an interface for sending and receiving data with the camera 3. For example, the sensor interface 24 sends a signal to the camera 3 to take a picture based on the control of the processor 21. The sensor interface 24 also acquires the captured image obtained from the camera 3. For example, the sensor interface 24 may support a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection or a Camera Link connection. The sensor interface 24 is an example of a first interface.

[0075] The communication interface 25 is an interface for sending and receiving data with an external device. The communication interface 25 connects to the external device via a network or the like. For example, the communication interface 25 supports wired or wireless LAN connections. The communication interface 25 connects to the POS terminal 1 in a communicative manner. The communication interface 25 is an example of a second interface.

[0076] The hardware configuration of the fraud detection device 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. The fraud detection device 2 allows for the omission and modification of the above-described components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0077] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the data structure of product registration information according to the embodiment. Product registration information includes a product registration information record for each registered product. A registered product refers to a registered product. A registered product is also called a transactional product. The product registration information record includes the registration date and time, registration device, product code, and product name, etc. Product registration information is updated each time a transactional product is registered at POS terminal 1. Product registration information is updated each time the fraud detection device 2 obtains product registration information from POS terminal 1. Note that product registration information only needs to include the registration date and time and information indicating the registration device for each registered product. Product registration information may include information other than the registration date and time, registration device, product code, and product name.

[0078] Figure 6 shows that product "AAA" was registered using a "fixed scanner" at the registration date and time "August 23, 2024, 9:42:55". Figure 6 shows that product "BBB" was registered using a "handheld scanner" at the registration date and time "August 23, 2024, 9:43:18". Figure 6 shows that product "CCC" was registered using a "touch panel" at the registration date and time "August 23, 2024, 9:43:31". According to this example, product registration information includes information indicating the type of device used to register the product. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can determine, based on the product registration information, whether the product was registered using a registration device other than a fixed scanner.

[0079] (Example of processing) The processing in the fraud detection device 2 will now be explained. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the information processing procedure by the fraud detection device 2 according to this embodiment.

[0080] The following processes are executed based on the fact that product registration has been initiated by the operator of POS terminal 1. The initiation of product registration may be interpreted as the initiation of a transaction. For example, processor 21 detects a product registration start trigger. Processor 21 may also obtain a start instruction based on the input of a start instruction on the touch panel 101 by the operator of POS terminal 1. Processor 21 may also detect a product registration start trigger based on the acquisition of a start instruction.

[0081] The processor 21 initiates fraud detection processing based on the detection of the product registration start trigger. The processor 21 clears the authorization information (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, the processor 21 clears the authorization flag stored in RAM 23.

[0082] The processor 21 acquires captured images from the camera 3 via the sensor interface 24. For example, the processor 21 acquires a video. The video acquired by the processor 21 is a video composed of a series of captured images obtained in time by the camera 3 based on the capture.

[0083] The processor 21 detects the entry of an object into a predetermined area based on the captured image acquired from the camera 3 (ACT2). In ACT2, for example, the processor 21 determines, based on the captured image, whether the object entered the predetermined area from the upstream side. If the processor 21 detects that the object entered from the upstream side of the region corresponding to the predetermined area in the captured image, it determines that it has detected the object entering the predetermined area.

[0084] In one example, the object is the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1. The processor 21 performs image recognition based on the captured image, for example. Based on the image recognition results, the processor 21 determines whether the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1 entered the area corresponding to a predetermined area in the captured image from the upstream side. In this example, the processor 21 can perform fraud detection based on the detection result of the operator's hand. Therefore, the processor 21 can appropriately detect fraud based on the fact that the operator's hand has passed through the predetermined area.

[0085] In another example, the object is the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1 holding a product. The processor 21 performs image recognition based on the captured image, for example. The processor 21 recognizes the shape of the hand by image recognition, for example. The processor 21 may also recognize the shape of the hand and the object by image recognition. Based on the results of the image recognition, the processor 21 determines whether the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1 is holding an object. The processor 21 determines whether the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1 is holding an object and has entered the area corresponding to a predetermined area in the captured image from the upstream side. According to this example, the processor 21 can make a fraud detection based on the detection result of a hand holding an object. Therefore, the processor 21 can suppress false fraud detection when the operator is not holding a product.

[0086] In yet another example, the object is an object such as a product. The processor 21 performs image recognition based on the captured image, for example. The processor 21 recognizes, for example, whether the object is a product through image recognition. Based on the result of image recognition, the processor 21 determines whether the product entered from the upstream side of the area corresponding to a predetermined area in the captured image. According to this example, the processor 21 can make a fraud determination based on the product detection result. Therefore, the processor 21 can suppress false fraud detection when the product has not passed through the predetermined area. The object may also be an object held by the operator of the POS terminal 1. In this case, the processor 21 recognizes the object held by the operator through image recognition, for example. The processor 21 may recognize the shape of the hand and the object through image recognition. Based on the result of image recognition, the processor 21 determines whether the product held by the operator entered from the upstream side of the area corresponding to a predetermined area in the captured image. According to this example, the processor 21 can make a fraud determination based on the detection result of the product held by the operator. Therefore, the processor 21 can prevent it from mistakenly detecting fraud when the product being held by the operator has not passed through a designated area.

[0087] If the entry of the object into the designated area is detected (ACT2: YES), the process transitions from ACT2 to ACT3. If the entry of the object into the designated area is not detected (ACT2: NO), the process repeats ACT2.

[0088] Processor 21 determines whether a product was registered between the previous exit and the current entry (ACT3). In ACT3, for example, processor 21 determines whether there is product registration information that was registered between the time it detected that the previous object had left the designated area and the time it detected that the current object had entered the designated area. The previous object refers to the object detected immediately before the object detected in ACT2 in a single transaction. The current object refers to the object detected in ACT2. Detection of an object leaving the designated area includes determining whether the object exited from the downstream side of the region corresponding to the designated area in the captured image. The time it is detected that an object has entered the designated area is also called the entry detection time. The time it is detected that an object has left the designated area is also called the exit detection time. For example, processor 21 retrieves product registration information stored in RAM 23. Based on the product registration information, processor 21 determines whether product registration was performed between the time it detected the previous object's exit and the time it detected the current object's entry. Furthermore, if the previous target object did not exist, the processor 21 may determine whether product registration information exists before detecting the current target object's entry into the designated area.

[0089] If there is product registration information registered between the time of the previous object's exit detection and the time of the current object's entry detection, the processor 21 determines that a product was registered between the time of the previous exit and the time of the current entry. If there is no product registration information registered between the time of the previous object's exit detection and the time of the current object's entry detection, the processor 21 determines that no product was registered between the time of the previous exit and the current entry.

[0090] If a product was registered between the previous exit and the current entry (ACT3: YES), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT4. If no product was registered between the previous exit and the current entry (ACT3: NO), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT6.

[0091] Processor 21 determines whether the registration device is a fixed scanner based on whether the goods were registered between the previous exit and the current entry (ACT4). In ACT4, for example, Processor 21 refers to the goods registration information for which goods were registered between the previous exit and the current entry. Based on the goods registration information, Processor 21 determines the type of registration device. If the type of registration device is a fixed scanner, Processor 21 determines that the registration device is a fixed scanner. If the type of registration device is different from a fixed scanner, Processor 21 determines that the registration device is not a fixed scanner.

[0092] If the registered device is a fixed scanner (ACT4:YES), the process transitions from ACT4 to ACT6. If the registered device is not a fixed scanner (ACT4:NO), the process transitions from ACT4 to ACT5.

[0093] The processor 21 sets authorization information (ACT5) based on the fact that the registered device is not a fixed scanner. In ACT5, for example, the processor 21 sets an authorization flag. The processor 21 stores the authorization flag in RAM 23.

[0094] The processor 21 detects when an object leaves a predetermined area based on the captured image acquired from the camera 3 (ACT6). In ACT6, for example, the processor 21 determines, based on the captured image, whether the object has left the downstream side of the predetermined area. The processor 21 performs image recognition based on the captured image. Based on the results of the image recognition, the processor 21 determines whether the object has left the downstream side of the region corresponding to the predetermined area in the captured image.

[0095] If the object is detected to have left the designated area (ACT6: YES), the process transitions from ACT6 to ACT7. If the object is not detected to have left the designated area (ACT6: NO), the process repeats ACT6.

[0096] Processor 21 determines whether a product was registered between the time the object entered and exited (ACT7). In ACT7, for example, Processor 21 determines whether there is any product registration information registered between the time the object entered and the time the object exited. For example, Processor 21 retrieves product registration information stored in RAM 23. Based on the product registration information, Processor 21 determines whether product registration was performed between the time the object entered and the time the object exited.

[0097] If there is any registered product information between the time of detection of the object's entry and the time of detection of the object's exit, the processor 21 determines that a product was registered between the time of the object's entry and exit. If there is no registered product information between the time of detection of the object's entry and the time of detection of the object's exit, the processor 21 determines that no product was registered between the time of the object's entry and exit. For example, the absence of product registration between the time of detection of the object's entry and exit is one example of a fraud detection condition related to product registration information.

[0098] If a product is registered between the entry and exit of the object (ACT7: YES), the process transitions from ACT7 to ACT1. If no product is registered between the entry and exit of the object (ACT7: NO), the process transitions from ACT7 to ACT8.

[0099] The processor 21 determines whether permission information is set based on the fact that no goods were registered between the entry and exit of the object (ACT8). In ACT8, for example, the processor 21 retrieves the permission flag stored in RAM 23. If the permission flag indicates "1", the processor 21 determines that permission information is set. In this case, the processor 21 may determine that the fraud detection conditions are not met. If the permission flag indicates "0", the processor 21 determines that permission information is not set.

[0100] If permission information is set (ACT8:YES), the process transitions from ACT8 to ACT1. In this case, processor 21 may permit the object to exit. For example, processor 21 may determine that the fraud detection conditions for product registration are not met. Processor 21 may also determine that there is no fraud regarding product registration. If permission information is not set (ACT8:NO), the process transitions from ACT8 to ACT9.

[0101] The processor 21 outputs a notification (ACT9) based on the fact that permission information is not set. In ACT9, for example, the processor 21 determines that the fraud detection conditions for product registration are met based on the fact that permission information is not set. The processor 21 outputs a notification based on the result of the fraud detection. For example, the processor 21 outputs a notification to the POS terminal 1 indicating that there is fraud regarding product registration. The POS terminal 1 receives the notification from the fraud detection device 2. The POS terminal 1 may display the notification on the touch panel 101 based on the notification. The POS terminal 1 may output the notification as audio via the speaker 111. The POS terminal 1 may light up or blink the alarm lamp 110 based on the notification.

[0102] In this example, the fraud detection device 2 makes a fraud determination regarding product registration, using the conditions for fraud determination as follows: no product registration information has been registered between the time the object enters and exits a designated area, and permission information has not been set.

[0103] In this example, the fraud detection device 2 can acquire detection information of an object via the sensor interface 24, acquire product registration information via the communication interface 25, and perform fraud determination regarding product registration based on the detection information and product registration information. For example, the fraud detection device 2 detects an object based on the image captured by the camera 3. The fraud detection device 2 can determine whether there are any missing product registrations based on the object detection result and the product registration information recorded by the POS terminal 1. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can appropriately detect fraud in product registration by performing fraud determination by combining the detection information and product registration information. In addition, since the fraud detection device 2 can perform fraud determination each time an object is detected, it can determine the presence or absence of fraud in real time.

[0104] Furthermore, the fraud detection device 2 can acquire product registration information, including information indicating the type of registration device on which the product was registered, and can set permission information according to the type of registration device. For example, the fraud detection device 2 can determine whether the registration device on which the product was registered is a fixed scanner, and can set permission information if the product was registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can set conditions for fraud detection according to the type of registration device. For example, when an operator registers a product using a registration device other than a fixed scanner, such as a handheld scanner or touch panel, the product may be moved from the upstream side to the downstream side of the POS terminal 1 after registration. By setting permission information according to the type of registration device, the fraud detection device 2 can suppress the false detection of fraud when a registration device that is likely to register the product before the product is moved is used. As a result, the fraud detection device 2 can appropriately detect fraudulent product registration. In addition, the fraud detection device 2 can suppress false detections of fraudulent product registration.

[0105] Furthermore, the fraud detection device 2 can output a notification based on the result of the fraud detection. For example, if the fraud detection device 2 determines that there is fraud in product registration, it outputs a notification to the POS terminal 1 indicating that there is fraud. The POS terminal 1 outputs the notification via the speaker 111 or touch panel 101, informing the operator of the fraud that there is fraud. The operator of the POS terminal 1 can easily recognize fraud, such as missing product registrations, based on the notification. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can suppress fraud in product registration.

[0106] Furthermore, the fraud detection device 2 can detect the entry and exit of an object into a predetermined area based on the detection information. For example, the fraud detection device 2 detects the entry and exit of an object into a predetermined area based on the images captured by the camera 3. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can determine fraud regarding product registration based on the timing of when the object enters the predetermined area, the timing of when the object exits the predetermined area, and the timing of when the product is registered. For example, the fraud detection device 2 can determine that there is a product registration omission if no product registration occurs between the time the object enters and exits the predetermined area, and permission information is not set. In this way, the fraud detection device 2 can appropriately detect fraud in product registration. In addition, the fraud detection device 2 can suppress false detections of fraud in product registration.

[0107] For example, if the object is the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1, the fraud detection device 2 determines, based on the image recognition results, whether the operator's hand entered the area corresponding to a predetermined area in the captured image from the upstream side. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can determine fraud by determining the entry and exit of the hand into the predetermined area. Since the fraud detection device 2 predicts the movement of the product by detecting the movement of the operator's hand and makes fraud determinations, it can appropriately detect fraudulent product registration. In addition, since the fraud detection device 2 only needs to detect the movement of the operator's hand, the image recognition load can be reduced.

[0108] For example, if the object is a hand holding a product, the fraud detection device 2 determines, based on the image recognition results, whether the operator's hand at the POS terminal 1 is holding the object. The fraud detection device 2 determines whether the operator's hand at the POS terminal 1 entered the area corresponding to a predetermined area of ​​the captured image from the upstream side while holding the object. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can determine fraud by determining the entry and exit of the hand holding the object into the predetermined area. By determining fraud based on whether the operator's hand is holding an object, the fraud detection device 2 can suppress false fraud detections when the operator does not have a product. As a result, the fraud detection device 2 can more appropriately detect fraud in product registration and suppress false detections.

[0109] For example, if the object is a product or other physical object, the fraud detection device 2 recognizes whether the object is a product based on the image recognition results. The fraud detection device 2 determines whether the product entered the area corresponding to a predetermined area in the captured image from the upstream side. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can make a fraud determination by determining the entry and exit of the product to and from the predetermined area. By making fraud determinations based on the product, the fraud detection device 2 can suppress false fraud determinations when something other than a product passes through the predetermined area. As a result, the fraud detection device 2 can more appropriately detect fraud in product registration and suppress false determinations.

[0110] Thus, the fraud detection device 2 can perform fraud detection on product registration based on fraud detection conditions for product registration information based on the detection of the target object, and fraud detection conditions for permission information. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can appropriately detect fraud in product registration.

[0111] (modified version) The above example described the use of permission flags as permission information, but permission information is not limited to this. Permission information may also be permission counters. The following example illustrates the case where the authorization information is an authorization counter. In this example, RAM23 stores the authorization counter as the authorization information.

[0112] For example, the authorization counter is information indicating the number of times an object is permitted to enter and exit a predetermined area. The authorization counter may also be information indicating the number of times a product has been registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. The authorization counter is a numerical value for identifying the number of times an object is permitted to enter and exit a predetermined area. The authorization counter may also be a numerical value for identifying the number of times a product has been registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. For example, if the processor 21 permits an object to enter and exit a predetermined area, it increments the authorization counter. If the processor 21 does not permit an object to enter and exit a predetermined area, it clears the authorization counter. Clearing the authorization counter includes setting the authorization counter to "0". The processor 21 may increment the authorization counter if a product has been registered by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. The processor 21 may clear the authorization counter if a product has been registered by a fixed scanner.

[0113] The processor 21 may decrement the permission counter when the object leaves a predetermined area.

[0114] The processor 21 may increment the authorization counter based on the number of items registered by a registration device other than the fixed scanner. For example, if multiple items are registered by the operator via the handheld scanner 103 or the touch panel 101, the processor 21 may increment the authorization counter multiple times. Incrementing multiple times means increasing the value of the counter multiple times. For example, if two items are registered by the operator via the handheld scanner 103 or the touch panel 101, the processor 21 may increment the authorization counter twice. If the object is a hand holding an item, or an item, the processor 21 may decrement the authorization counter by the number of items based on the number of items that have left the predetermined area.

[0115] (Example of processing) The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate. Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure for information processing related to the setting of permission information by the fraud detection device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0116] The following processes are executed based on the fact that product registration has been initiated by the operator of POS terminal 1. For example, the processor 21 detects the product registration start trigger. The processor 21 may also obtain a start instruction based on the input of a start instruction on the touch panel 101 by the operator of POS terminal 1. The processor 21 may also detect the product registration start trigger based on the acquisition of the start instruction.

[0117] The processor 21 starts fraud detection processing based on the detection of the product registration start trigger. The processor 21 clears the permission counter (ACT101). In ACT101, for example, the processor 21 sets the value of the permission counter to "0". The processor 21 saves the permission counter to RAM23.

[0118] Processor 21 determines whether product registration information has been obtained (ACT102). In ACT102, for example, processor 21 determines whether product registration information has been obtained from POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 25. If product registration information has been obtained (ACT102: YES), the process transitions from ACT102 to ACT103. If product registration information has not been obtained (ACT102: NO), the process repeats ACT102.

[0119] The processor 21 determines whether the registered device is a fixed scanner based on the acquired product registration information (ACT103). In ACT103, for example, the processor 21 determines the type of registered device based on the acquired product registration information. If the type of registered device is a fixed scanner, the processor 21 determines that the registered device is a fixed scanner. If the type of registered device is different from a fixed scanner, the processor 21 determines that the registered device is not a fixed scanner.

[0120] If the registered device is a fixed scanner (ACT103:YES), the process transitions from ACT103 to ACT104. If the registered device is not a fixed scanner (ACT103:NO), the process transitions from ACT103 to ACT105.

[0121] The processor 21 clears the authorization counter (ACT104) based on the fact that the registered device is a fixed scanner. In ACT104, for example, the processor 21 sets the value of the authorization counter to "0". The processor 21 saves the authorization counter to RAM23. Then, the process returns to ACT102.

[0122] The processor 21 increments the authorization counter (ACT105) based on the fact that the registration device is not a fixed scanner. In ACT105, for example, the processor 21 increments the value of the authorization counter by 1. The processor 21 stores the authorization counter in RAM23. Incrementing the authorization counter is one example of setting authorization information. The processor 21 may increment the authorization counter multiple times if the product registration information indicates the registration of multiple products. The processor 21 sets the authorization counter based on the number of product registrations by a registration device other than a fixed scanner. After that, the process returns to ACT102.

[0123] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure for processing information related to fraud detection by the fraud detection device 2 according to this embodiment. The following processes are executed based on the fact that product registration has been initiated by the operator of POS terminal 1. The processor 21 acquires images from camera 3 via the sensor interface 24. For example, the processor 21 acquires video.

[0124] The processor 21, similar to ACT6, detects when an object leaves a predetermined area based on the captured image acquired from the camera 3 (ACT201). In ACT201, for example, the processor 21 determines, based on the captured image, whether the object has left the predetermined area from the downstream side. If the processor 21 detects that the object has left the area corresponding to the predetermined area in the captured image from the downstream side, it determines that it has detected the object leaving the predetermined area.

[0125] In one example, the object is the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1. In another example, the object is the hand of the operator of POS terminal 1 holding a product. In yet another example, the object is an object such as a product.

[0126] If the object is detected to have left the designated area (ACT201:YES), the process transitions from ACT201 to ACT202. If the object is not detected to have left the designated area (ACT201:NO), the process repeats ACT201.

[0127] The processor 21, similar to ACT7, determines whether a product was registered between the time the object entered and exited (ACT202). In ACT202, for example, the processor 21 determines whether there is product registration information registered between the time the object entered and the time the object exited. For example, the processor 21 retrieves product registration information stored in RAM23. Based on the product registration information, the processor 21 determines whether product registration was performed between the time the object entered and the time the object exited.

[0128] If there is product registration information registered between the time of object entry detection and the time of object exit detection, the processor 21 determines that a product was registered between the time of object entry and exit. If there is no product registration information registered between the time of object entry detection and the time of object exit detection, the processor 21 determines that no product was registered between the time of object entry and exit.

[0129] If a product is registered between the entry and exit of the object (ACT202:YES), the process returns from ACT202 to ACT201. If no product is registered between the entry and exit of the object (ACT202:NO), the process transitions from ACT202 to ACT203.

[0130] The processor 21 determines whether the value of the authorization counter is greater than 0 based on whether no goods were registered between the entry and exit of the object (ACT203). In ACT203, for example, the processor 21 retrieves the authorization counter stored in RAM23. The processor 21 determines whether the value of the authorization counter is greater than 0. A value greater than 0 in the authorization counter is one example of authorization information being set. If the value of the authorization counter is greater than 0 (ACT203: YES), the process transitions from ACT203 to ACT204. If the value of the authorization counter is not greater than 0 (ACT203: NO), the process transitions from ACT203 to ACT205.

[0131] Processor 21 decrements the value of the permission counter based on the fact that the value of the permission counter is greater than 0 (ACT204). In ACT204, for example, Processor 21 may permit the exit of the object based on the fact that the value of the permission counter is greater than 0. Processor 21 determines that the fraud detection conditions for product registration are not met. Processor 21 may also determine that there is no fraud regarding product registration. After that, the process returns to ACT201. Note that in ACT201, if Processor 21 detects the exit of a hand holding a product, or a product as an object, it may decrement the permission counter by the number of products based on the number of products that have left the predetermined area.

[0132] Processor 21 does not permit the object to leave based on the fact that the value of the permission counter is not greater than 0. Processor 21 determines that the fraud detection conditions for product registration are met. Processor 21 may determine that there is fraud in the product registration. Based on the result of the fraud detection, Processor 21 outputs a notification. For example, Processor 21 outputs a notification indicating that there is fraud to POS terminal 1. POS terminal 1 receives the notification from fraud detection device 2. Based on the notification, POS terminal 1 may display the notification on the touch panel 101. POS terminal 1 may output the notification as sound via speaker 111. Based on the notification, POS terminal 1 may light up or blink the alarm lamp 110. After that, the process returns to ACT201.

[0133] In this example, the fraud detection device 2 makes a fraud determination regarding product registration, using the conditions for fraud determination that no product registration information was registered between the time the object entered and exited a designated area, and that the permission counter is 0.

[0134] In this example, the same effect can be obtained in the fraud detection device 2 as when the permission information is a permission flag.

[0135] Furthermore, the fraud detection device 2 can set permission information based on the number of times items are registered using a registration device other than the fixed scanner. For example, when registering items, the fraud detection device 2 can set the value of the permission counter according to the number of times items are registered using a registration device other than the fixed scanner. Therefore, the fraud detection device 2 can permit entry to and exit from a designated area for an object according to the number of times items are registered using a registration device other than the fixed scanner. For example, an operator of POS terminal 1 may register multiple items consecutively via the handheld scanner 103 or the touch panel 101, and then move multiple items from the upstream side to the downstream side of POS terminal 1. Even if the number of times items are registered using a registration device other than the fixed scanner 115 and the number of times items are moved are different, the fraud detection device 2 can appropriately detect fraudulent item registration.

[0136] <Other Embodiments> In the embodiments described above, the case in which an object is detected by an overhead camera was explained as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. An object may also be detected by a camera mounted on a fixed scanner 115 or by an infrared sensor. The intrusion detection device 2 may also detect the entry and exit of an object into a predetermined area based on detection information from the camera mounted on the fixed scanner 115 or the infrared sensor.

[0137] In the above-described embodiment, the fraud detection device 2 was explained as setting permission information based on product registration information, but it is not limited to this. For example, the fraud detection device 2 may set permission information that allows passage through a predetermined area of ​​an object while the operator of the POS terminal 1 is holding the handheld scanner 103. For example, the fraud detection device 2 may detect that the operator is holding the handheld scanner 103 based on the image captured by the camera 3. The fraud detection device 2 may set permission information based on the detection result.

[0138] The functions realized by the processor 21 described in the above-described embodiment are not limited to being realized by a single device such as the fraud detection device 2. Each function may be realized by an information processing system distributed across multiple devices.

[0139] The embodiments described above may be applied to a single device. The embodiments described above may be applied to a method performed by one or more devices. The embodiments described above may be applied to a program that can cause computers in one or more devices to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0140] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0141] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0142] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0143] Some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (1) A first interface capable of communicating with a sensor that detects an object, A second interface that can communicate with the registered device, Processing circuit and Equipped with, The aforementioned processing circuit is The detection information of the object is acquired via the first interface. Product registration information is obtained via the second interface described above. Based on the aforementioned detection information and the aforementioned product registration information, a determination is made regarding fraudulent product registration. Fraud detection device. (2) The product registration information includes information indicating the type of registration unit in which the product is registered, The aforementioned processing circuit is The permission information is set according to the type of registration unit. (1) The fraud detection device described above. (3) The product registration information includes information indicating the type of registration unit in which the product is registered, The aforementioned processing circuit is The permission information is set based on the number of registrations made by a registration unit different from that of a fixed scanner. (1) The fraud detection device described above. (4) The processing circuit is Based on the results of the fraud detection, a notification is output. (1) The fraud detection device described above. (5) The processing circuit detects the entry and exit of the object into a predetermined area based on the detection information. (1) The fraud detection device described above. (6) To the computer, The first interface has a function to acquire detection information of the target object, The second interface provides a function to retrieve product registration information, A function to set permission information based on the aforementioned product registration information, A function to determine fraudulent activity regarding product registration based on the aforementioned detection information and the aforementioned product registration information, A program that can execute [this action]. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1…POS terminal, 2…Fraud detection device, 3…Camera, 21…Processor, 24…Sensor interface, 25…Communication interface, 100…Main unit, 101…Touch panel, 102…Scanner window, 103…Handheld scanner, 104…Receipt printing slot, 105…Card slot, 106…Coin tray, 107…Change tray, 108…Banknote insertion slot, 109…Banknote output slot, 110…Alarm lamp, 111…Speaker, 112…Processor, 113…Main memory unit Knit, 114... Auxiliary storage unit, 115... Fixed scanner, 116... Printer, 117... Change machine, 118... Credit card reader, 119... Electronic money reader / writer, 120... Communication interface, 201... Shopping basket stand, 301... Bagging stand, 302... Temporary stand, 303... Arm, 1141... Product master, 1142... Product registration information, Ara... Readable area, Arb... Passage detection area, NA... Network, S... Fraud detection system, X... Store.

Claims

1. A first interface capable of communicating with a sensor that detects an object, A second interface that can communicate with the registered device, Processing circuit and Equipped with, The aforementioned processing circuit is The detection information of the object is acquired via the first interface. Product registration information is obtained via the second interface described above. Based on the aforementioned detection information and the aforementioned product registration information, a determination is made regarding fraudulent product registration. Fraud detection device.

2. The aforementioned product registration information includes information indicating the type of registration unit in which the product was registered. The aforementioned processing circuit is The permission information is set according to the type of registration unit. The fraud detection device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned product registration information includes information indicating the type of registration unit in which the product was registered. The aforementioned processing circuit is The permission information is set based on the number of registrations made by a registration unit different from that of a fixed scanner. The fraud detection device according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned processing circuit is Based on the results of the fraud detection, a notification is output. The fraud detection device according to claim 1.

5. The processing circuit detects the entry and exit of the object into a predetermined area based on the detection information. The fraud detection device according to claim 1.

6. On the computer, The first interface has a function to acquire detection information of the target object, The second interface provides a function to retrieve product registration information, A function to set permission information based on the aforementioned product registration information, A function to determine fraudulent activity regarding product registration based on the aforementioned detection information and the aforementioned product registration information, A program that can execute [this action].

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