Supermarket says cameras used to detect accidental wrong scans while experts say the technology is ‘punitive’ and call for reforms to protect privacy
Woolworths has expanded the use of technology that films customers scanning items at self-checkouts to 110 stores in three states, as critics say the functionality could make people feel they are under constant surveillance.
The footage cannot be viewed live but Woolworths said it is retained for training staff. The company said customers’ faces are blurred and pin pads are blacked out.Samantha Floreani, a program lead for Digital Rights Watch, said the technology could make many shoppers feel “like they are constantly being watched and recorded”.
The first trial of the technology began at Seven Hills in western Sydney, but was expanded to four other stores in the state by September last year. It has since expanded to 110 stores in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.“Following a recent trial phase, we’re expanding the rollout of this technology,” a Woolworths spokesperson said.
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