Shoppers question biometric data collection at McDonald Avenue ShopRite
Several shoppers told News 12 they did not notice the sign until it was pointed out to them.
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Shoppers at the ShopRite on McDonald Avenue say they were caught off guard this week after new signage appeared informing customers that biometric data may be collected inside the store.
The notice, posted near the entrance, states that the store may collect personal biometric information. That can include facial features, eye characteristics and voice data. Several shoppers told News 12 they did not notice the sign until it was pointed out to them.
“It’s like an invasion of my privacy,” one shopper said. “Why do you need all that information?”
Others said they understood the move as a response to rising theft.
“Unfortunately, it’s the future,” another shopper said. “Shoplifting is ridiculous.”
Still, many raised questions about what happens to the data after customers leave the store.
“They don’t tell you what happens to the data,” one shopper said. “Does it get erased? Do they sell it?”
Several shoppers said the sign should be larger and clearer, especially when it comes to explaining exactly what information is being collected and how it is used. Others said they were concerned about how the data could affect children who enter the store.
“I take my son shopping,” one shopper said. “Do they have his picture?”
News 12 reached out to ShopRite with questions about how long biometric data is stored, whether it is shared with law enforcement, and if it is sold to third parties. The station is still waiting for a response.
This is not the first time grocery store surveillance has raised concerns in New York City.
Earlier this year, News 12 reported on similar biometric data notices at Wegmans stores in Brooklyn, where shoppers also questioned how their personal information was being handled.
