Shoppers Outraged Over Grocery Chain’s Dystopian Anti-Theft Tactics

California shoppers are furious at a grocery store chain that is implementing new facial recognition technology to identify people suspected of shoplifting.

Some Grocery Outlet stores in the Bay Area will use anti-theft software called SAFR, including its Pleasant Hill “Bargain Market” location, according to CBS News. The Emeryville-based chain’s move is leaving shoppers concerned about their faces being scanned and their privacy being invaded. 

Signs posted on the front doors of the stores will notify customers that the technology is being used.

Shoplifting in California has increased 50% since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to recent FBI data.

June Guerrero, who managed a store for several years, said she understands the need for facial recognition technology since she has witnessed how theft has affected retailers.

“I worked for years as a manager of a store and the theft was just unbelievable,” Guerrero told CBS News. “I agree with it.” 

Reactions to the technology are mixed. 

“I do understand, but invading my privacy with my picture, I don’t agree on that,” Barbara Jackson told CBS News. “You gotta find a better way.”

Steve Burdette said his main concern is false flags. 

“It could lead to a lot of problems, I think for companies and businesses and people,” Burdette said to CBS News. 

Dr. Ahmed Banafa, an engineering professor at San Jose State, said that without safeguards in place, this technology could make the grocery chain susceptible to lawsuits. 

“The human has to be in the loop. It’s not just the system that says it’s a match. The human will make the final decision,” Banafa said.  “AI is famous for going after, you know, certain races.”

Charisse Jacques, the SAFR president, said the technology only retains information on shoplifting suspects for a limited time. Jacques said it does not collect a database of people in the stores and is not connected to law enforcement.

According to SAFR, the company does not share the information with the government agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Post reported.