“Many other retailers are using a third party tracker that tracks returns across multiple stores to identify abusive shoppers, and stores use this data to deny returns to people who abuse return policies, even if that abuse was at another store.”
Yes, that system does exist and should be adopted by more retailers.
I would prefer a society where scofflaws and grifters are shamed and ostracized. We have become a nation without morals, and gaming the system is applauded and promoted. “Don’t hate the playa, hate the game”. These people would have no problem stealing money if they found a wallet on the sidewalk, or keeping the money when a cashier gave them too much change.