Albertsons NW: Printable coupons: Don't be tempted...

[diva_dynamite]

to copy internet printed coupons. IT IS FRAUD, and a CRIME! Each coupon printed from SmartSource, General Mills, Pillsbury, RedPlum, etc., has a unique code stating the date and time of printing, and there may be other unique numbers or codes as well. Stores will only be reimbursed for the first coupon. If they submit multiples of the same coupon, they may be investigated for coupon fraud. Naturally, they will try to take it back to the source, the shopper. If it causes them too much trouble to weed out copied coupons, they can and will stop allowing printable coupons altogether. This hurts us all.
Unfortunately, unless a coupon is an actual PDF file, most coupons are connected to a software that limits the number of prints, either per computer, per account if you have to log-in to print, or total prints for a campaign. This puts a dent in the number of coupons we can all use, unlike insert coupons, where we can just buy or collect more papers.

So, how bad is it if you are caught using a counterfeit or photocopied coupon? According to CIC (the Coupon Information Center):
Penalties for those convicted of coupon fraud related crimes vary by each case and the number of laws violated.
As of this date,
Longest prison sentence: 17 years
Highest financial penalty: $5 million
Prison sentences of three to five years are not uncommon. Financial penalties generally vary, but have often been in excess of $200,000.

I know the economy is tough, but one way for us all to look out for each other is to make sure we're all following the rules. Hot Coupon World does not support any illegal use of a coupon, including copying them.