We can say that technology is pushing us to limits we didn’t foresee in previous years. For example, biometric surveillance. This type of technology, for those unfamiliar with it, is a security measure based on identifying people through their physical characteristics. That is, through facial recognition, voice recognition, fingerprints… everything that represents a human being and makes them unique. Regarding the implementation of this technology in places like Wegmans and Walmart, New York State Senator Rachel May introduced a bill last year that would prohibit the use of biometric surveillance systems or biometric surveillance information in public places, such as supermarkets.
The supermarket chain has confirmed this, stating that it uses facial recognition technology in a ‘small fraction’
This all came after a notice posted in a New York City store revealed that Wegmans Food Markets collects biometric data from customers, including facial scans and voiceprints. The supermarket chain has confirmed this, stating that it uses facial recognition technology in a “small fraction” of its stores that present a “high risk.” The supermarket chain has not indicated whether it uses the same technology in its Syracuse stores or other locations, but spokeswoman Tracy Van Auker confirmed that Wegmans uses cameras equipped with facial recognition software in a “small fraction of high-risk stores.”
Many customers may not even notice the notification
This is a particularly concerning issue, as it involves infringing on citizens’ privacy. The supermarket chain argues that it informs customers about the use of this technology, even though it doesn’t ask for their permission. Many customers may not even notice the notification or may have no other option but to shop at these supermarkets due to proximity, for example. For its part, the Rochester-based chain, with more than 100 stores in nine states and Washington, D.C., stated that it does not share biometric data with third parties and retains it only “as long as necessary for security purposes.”
The company has not disclosed exactly how many locations use the technology or the specific retention period, citing security reasons
In any case, the company has not disclosed exactly how many locations use the technology or the specific retention period, citing security reasons. What is certain is that Wegmans recently placed signs in some New York City stores to notify shoppers about this data collection, which “stores, converts, or shares customers’ biometric information, which may include facial recognition, iris scanning, or voiceprints.”
Local media and privacy advocates are discussing the fine line this type of technology walks
According to Patch.com, other supermarket chains and retail stores, including Walmart and Target, have also been using similar technology. In a statement, Wegmans said that the “safety of our customers and employees is a top priority” and that the technology is used “solely to keep our stores safe” by identifying individuals previously flagged for misconduct. Despite this, local media and privacy advocates are discussing the fine line this type of technology walks; quoting the media, they fear it “makes people vulnerable to hacking, identity theft, and ICE enforcement.”
The legislator considers the guarantees for the use of data “for security” insufficient
One of the main concerns is the future use of this information. For this reason, among others, there has been strong criticism from privacy advocates and legislators. Specifically, New York State Representative Rachel Barnhart sent a letter to the CEO of Wegmans demanding transparency regarding the use of biometric surveillance outside of New York City. The legislator considers the guarantees for the use of data “for security” insufficient without explicit and binding limits. Therefore, is it enough for companies to simply report on the use of biometrics?