Facial Recognition in NZ Supermarkets: Privacy Concerns Despite Compliance

Facial recognition technology is being trialled in supermarkets across New Zealand. This raises concerns about privacy. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner investigated a trial by Foodstuffs in the North Island. They found that the technology was compliant with the Privacy Act. However, concerns remain about data collection and potential misuse. "The system raised privacy concerns," says Commissioner Michael Webster. "The unnecessary or unfair collection of a customer’s information, misidentification, technical bias and its ability to be used for surveillance." One interviewee stated, "It's already here." The debate continues on balancing security and individual rights in the age of facial recognition.