Coles and Woolworths test facial recognition technology in supermarkets
The Guardian · August 17, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
Coles and Woolworths have confirmed they are testing facial recognition technology in their Australian supermarkets. The technology could be used to record shoppers' biometric data in an effort to reduce retail crime, including incidents of aggression toward staff.
Why it matters
This issue raises concerns about consumer privacy and the implications of surveillance technologies in public spaces.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you shop at Coles or Woolworths?
The implementation of facial recognition technology could lead to your biometric data being recorded while you shop. This raises significant privacy concerns, as you may not be comfortable with being surveilled in public spaces.
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