Wegmans uses biometric surveillance in some stores, raising privacy concerns

Wegmans says it collects facial recognition and other biometric data in a small number of stores for security, and a New York county legislator has requested a substantive written response within 30 days.

A viral post drew attention to a sign at a Wegmans in New York City that states the store collects biometric identifier information. The sign lists facial recognition, eye scans and voiceprints among the data collected. Wegmans confirmed to a news outlet that it uses facial recognition technology in a small fraction of stores it considers to have elevated risk and said the system is intended for store security. A Monroe County legislator has written to Wegmans' CEO asking whether biometric surveillance is used outside New York City and requested a substantive written response within 30 days. Key points: - A sign at a New York City Wegmans states the store collects biometric identifiers, including facial recognition, eye scans and voiceprints. - Wegmans confirmed it uses facial recognition in a small fraction of stores for security, said images and video are retained as needed for security purposes, and said it does not share biometric data with third parties. - Legislator Rachel Barnhart asked for public clarification from Wegmans' CEO and requested a substantive written response within 30 days; it is unclear how many stores use the technology. Summary: The reports have prompted privacy concerns and questions about oversight of biometric data in retail settings. Wegmans has described the technology as a security tool, and a legislator has formally requested clarification and a written response within 30 days. Undetermined at this time.