Technology has mingled its way into our everyday lives, but the convenience and advances it brings have not come without their downsides. Some of which even have implications on privacy.

Such a situation is hard to ignore, especially in the context of recent news where Coles supermarket is trialling 'innovative' security solutions such as 'smart gateway technology', which is aimed at reducing the issue of theft in its stores.

Described as a necessary move to combat the skyrocketing $9 billion-a-year issue of theft, Australia's two biggest supermarkets have started to roll out a plethora of stringent security measures.

However, some experts have voiced fears about an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers while in stores.

Security measures being implemented at Coles may be causing an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers. Image sources: Shutterstock (left), kjpargeter on Freepik (right).

In an attempt to suppress criminal activity and protect staff from an apparent surge in violent behaviour, Coles has introduced various advanced technologies into its stores nationwide.

Among these are overhead cameras designed to track shoppers' every move, artificial intelligence-enabled (AI) cameras at checkouts, and 'smart gates' that automatically lock if customers try to leave without paying for their goods.

Another recently implemented strategy by Coles is the use of body-worn cameras—already familiar to some Woolworths shoppers and to others as the technology used by police and bouncers. This measure will be put to trial across Coles’ 'high-risk' stores for the projection of their staff against any type of violence.

However, privacy campaigners have not been slow in criticising these developments, indicating that such excessive surveillance could put an unnecessary burden on shoppers and disproportionately impact society's most vulnerable members, with Deakin University Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Mary Ilias, warning of a culture of fear spurred by excessive surveillance.

The cameras, according to Dr Illias, may also 'exacerbate feelings of trauma and distrust' for those with vulnerabilities.

She expressed her fear of innocent people being unfairly targeted—individuals who may appear unsettled or shaky due to physical or mental conditions—causing unnecessary distress.

Retailers argue that this technology would not be put into action if customers were not happy with it.

'It's important to note that the majority of customers do the right thing in store. Measures like this are for the ones who don't,' a Coles spokesperson said.

'New technology such as body cameras is being tested by some stores here and overseas and is being done so within privacy laws and with careful attention to staff and customer feedback,' Paul Zahra, Australian Retailers Association Chief Executive said.

'It's in retailers' interests to keep their customers comfortable and at ease in stores and this kind of technology is first and foremost to keep frontline retail staff and customers safe,' Mr Zahra added.

Representatives from Coles and Woolworths have reassured their shoppers that footage from these cameras would be stored for no longer than 'a few weeks' and that their cameras complied with Australian laws on privacy.

In 2021, Woolworths also introduced a similar bold security measure for the safety of their employees and was widely praised by shoppers.

'The use of these cameras has seen a substantial reduction in the amount of abusive and physical incidents our stores team members have faced,' a Woolies spokesperson said.

Woolworths has also recently ramped up security efforts with its high-tech cameras at self-checkouts. This move has been widely criticised as customers said that the relentless surveillance on shoppers is 'completely unacceptable'.

You can read more about this here.

It's clear that some customers still feel far from being at ease with all these measures with one SDC member, @Punkywinner, saying: 'I am sorry, but I do not consent to myself or my family being recorded... they are not police officers.'

'This is an invasion of our privacy. Perhaps, if food [and] essential items were more affordable... stealing wouldn't be so prevalent!'

While other SDC members expressed their support for the supermarkets' initiatives:

'Anything that stops theft has got to be a good thing…' member @countryman said.

While member @Liz said: 'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books. I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place, under the privacy act.'

And member @Skeeta22 added: 'Isn't it a shame that retailers have had to resort to this? We all pay the price in the end for theft. I applaud retailers for taking this stand against dishonest people…'

Australian Privacy Foundation Vice-Chair, Dr Monique Mann, urges a reconsideration of these strategies and suggests an alternate approach that doesn't necessarily depend on surveillance.

'Let's think about why are we seeing increases in people shoplifting.'

'Why are people being aggressive towards staff? People are struggling. At the same time, Coles and Woolworths are recording massive (in excess of a billion dollars) profits amid a cost of living crisis.'

'Maybe they should think about that and try to alleviate [the] cost of living pressures rather than just expand surveillance and their profits,' Dr Mann said.

In response, Paul Zahra highlighted an often overlooked factor—the theft that costs Australian retailers an estimated $9 billion annually despite many being unreported.

'Cameras do not record personal information or have facial recognition. Any footage that is recorded is done so in line with all relevant laws and company privacy policy,' Mr Zahra noted.

'Retailers use these technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws and have strict protocols in place.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles and Woolworths, Australia's two largest supermarkets, are implementing high-tech security measures, including AI cameras and body-worn cameras, to combat theft and violent behaviour in stores.
• Experts and privacy campaigners have raised concerns, stating that these measures could lead to a sense of 'distrust' and 'trauma' in customers and unfairly target vulnerable individuals.
• Retail advocates argue that the technology is being trialled within privacy laws and aims to protect staff and customers, with Coles stating the majority of customers do the right thing and these measures target those who do not.
• While some applaud the measures taken for staff's safety, others express concerns over privacy issues and the increasing surveillance in the stores. Dr Mann, vice-chair of the Australian Privacy Foundation, suggests retailers should consider other approaches.

Members, have you seen these security measures in your local grocery? What are your thoughts on these security measures being implemented at your local supermarkets? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

 

[Dija]

Technology has mingled its way into our everyday lives, but the convenience and advances it brings have not come without their downsides. Some of which even have implications on privacy.

Such a situation is hard to ignore, especially in the context of recent news where Coles supermarket is trialling 'innovative' security solutions such as 'smart gateway technology', which is aimed at reducing the issue of theft in its stores.

Described as a necessary move to combat the skyrocketing $9 billion-a-year issue of theft, Australia's two biggest supermarkets have started to roll out a plethora of stringent security measures.

However, some experts have voiced fears about an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers while in stores.

View attachment 30160

Security measures being implemented at Coles may be causing an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers. Image sources: Shutterstock (left), kjpargeter on Freepik (right).

In an attempt to suppress criminal activity and protect staff from an apparent surge in violent behaviour, Coles has introduced various advanced technologies into its stores nationwide.

Among these are overhead cameras designed to track shoppers' every move, artificial intelligence-enabled (AI) cameras at checkouts, and 'smart gates' that automatically lock if customers try to leave without paying for their goods.

Another recently implemented strategy by Coles is the use of body-worn cameras—already familiar to some Woolworths shoppers and to others as the technology used by police and bouncers. This measure will be put to trial across Coles’ 'high-risk' stores for the projection of their staff against any type of violence.

However, privacy campaigners have not been slow in criticising these developments, indicating that such excessive surveillance could put an unnecessary burden on shoppers and disproportionately impact society's most vulnerable members, with Deakin University Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Mary Ilias, warning of a culture of fear spurred by excessive surveillance.

The cameras, according to Dr Illias, may also 'exacerbate feelings of trauma and distrust' for those with vulnerabilities.

She expressed her fear of innocent people being unfairly targeted—individuals who may appear unsettled or shaky due to physical or mental conditions—causing unnecessary distress.

Retailers argue that this technology would not be put into action if customers were not happy with it.

'It's important to note that the majority of customers do the right thing in store. Measures like this are for the ones who don't,' a Coles spokesperson said.

'New technology such as body cameras is being tested by some stores here and overseas and is being done so within privacy laws and with careful attention to staff and customer feedback,' Paul Zahra, Australian Retailers Association Chief Executive said.

'It's in retailers' interests to keep their customers comfortable and at ease in stores and this kind of technology is first and foremost to keep frontline retail staff and customers safe,' Mr Zahra added.

Representatives from Coles and Woolworths have reassured their shoppers that footage from these cameras would be stored for no longer than 'a few weeks' and that their cameras complied with Australian laws on privacy.

In 2021, Woolworths also introduced a similar bold security measure for the safety of their employees and was widely praised by shoppers.

'The use of these cameras has seen a substantial reduction in the amount of abusive and physical incidents our stores team members have faced,' a Woolies spokesperson said.

Woolworths has also recently ramped up security efforts with its high-tech cameras at self-checkouts. This move has been widely criticised as customers said that the relentless surveillance on shoppers is 'completely unacceptable'.

You can read more about this here.

It's clear that some customers still feel far from being at ease with all these measures with one SDC member, @Punkywinner, saying: 'I am sorry, but I do not consent to myself or my family being recorded... they are not police officers.'

'This is an invasion of our privacy. Perhaps, if food [and] essential items were more affordable... stealing wouldn't be so prevalent!'

While other SDC members expressed their support for the supermarkets' initiatives:

'Anything that stops theft has got to be a good thing…' member @countryman said.

While member @Liz said: 'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books. I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place, under the privacy act.'

And member @Skeeta22 added: 'Isn't it a shame that retailers have had to resort to this? We all pay the price in the end for theft. I applaud retailers for taking this stand against dishonest people…'

Australian Privacy Foundation Vice-Chair, Dr Monique Mann, urges a reconsideration of these strategies and suggests an alternate approach that doesn't necessarily depend on surveillance.

'Let's think about why are we seeing increases in people shoplifting.'

'Why are people being aggressive towards staff? People are struggling. At the same time, Coles and Woolworths are recording massive (in excess of a billion dollars) profits amid a cost of living crisis.'

'Maybe they should think about that and try to alleviate [the] cost of living pressures rather than just expand surveillance and their profits,' Dr Mann said.

In response, Paul Zahra highlighted an often overlooked factor—the theft that costs Australian retailers an estimated $9 billion annually despite many being unreported.

'Cameras do not record personal information or have facial recognition. Any footage that is recorded is done so in line with all relevant laws and company privacy policy,' Mr Zahra noted.

'Retailers use these technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws and have strict protocols in place.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles and Woolworths, Australia's two largest supermarkets, are implementing high-tech security measures, including AI cameras and body-worn cameras, to combat theft and violent behaviour in stores.
• Experts and privacy campaigners have raised concerns, stating that these measures could lead to a sense of 'distrust' and 'trauma' in customers and unfairly target vulnerable individuals.
• Retail advocates argue that the technology is being trialled within privacy laws and aims to protect staff and customers, with Coles stating the majority of customers do the right thing and these measures target those who do not.
• While some applaud the measures taken for staff's safety, others express concerns over privacy issues and the increasing surveillance in the stores. Dr Mann, vice-chair of the Australian Privacy Foundation, suggests retailers should consider other approaches.

Members, have you seen these security measures in your local grocery? What are your thoughts on these security measures being implemented at your local supermarkets? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

Hire security guards better than cameras and people have jobs

 

[Veggiepatch]

The first thing that strikes me is the increase in security staff, both overt and covert, in stores. This is at a time when in-store staff is being reduced.

Another consideration is the use of video footage for nefarious purposes by staff. These security videos would be timestamped and a staff member could access credit card details of a shopper using any checkout. Transaction details are stored and may be retrieved by staff anytime. Combine these two and you have an avenue of a potential stalker, or worse.

You think all this is a bit farfetched? I just thought of it and I'm not into this type of criminal behaviour.

 

[lonelyasacloud]

Shoplifting will continue no matter what they do, it’s always been a problem and nothing to do with the cost of living.

 

[Jest]

Technology has mingled its way into our everyday lives, but the convenience and advances it brings have not come without their downsides. Some of which even have implications on privacy.

Such a situation is hard to ignore, especially in the context of recent news where Coles supermarket is trialling 'innovative' security solutions such as 'smart gateway technology', which is aimed at reducing the issue of theft in its stores.

Described as a necessary move to combat the skyrocketing $9 billion-a-year issue of theft, Australia's two biggest supermarkets have started to roll out a plethora of stringent security measures.

However, some experts have voiced fears about an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers while in stores.

View attachment 30160

Security measures being implemented at Coles may be causing an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers. Image sources: Shutterstock (left), kjpargeter on Freepik (right).

In an attempt to suppress criminal activity and protect staff from an apparent surge in violent behaviour, Coles has introduced various advanced technologies into its stores nationwide.

Among these are overhead cameras designed to track shoppers' every move, artificial intelligence-enabled (AI) cameras at checkouts, and 'smart gates' that automatically lock if customers try to leave without paying for their goods.

Another recently implemented strategy by Coles is the use of body-worn cameras—already familiar to some Woolworths shoppers and to others as the technology used by police and bouncers. This measure will be put to trial across Coles’ 'high-risk' stores for the projection of their staff against any type of violence.

However, privacy campaigners have not been slow in criticising these developments, indicating that such excessive surveillance could put an unnecessary burden on shoppers and disproportionately impact society's most vulnerable members, with Deakin University Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Mary Ilias, warning of a culture of fear spurred by excessive surveillance.

The cameras, according to Dr Illias, may also 'exacerbate feelings of trauma and distrust' for those with vulnerabilities.

She expressed her fear of innocent people being unfairly targeted—individuals who may appear unsettled or shaky due to physical or mental conditions—causing unnecessary distress.

Retailers argue that this technology would not be put into action if customers were not happy with it.

'It's important to note that the majority of customers do the right thing in store. Measures like this are for the ones who don't,' a Coles spokesperson said.

'New technology such as body cameras is being tested by some stores here and overseas and is being done so within privacy laws and with careful attention to staff and customer feedback,' Paul Zahra, Australian Retailers Association Chief Executive said.

'It's in retailers' interests to keep their customers comfortable and at ease in stores and this kind of technology is first and foremost to keep frontline retail staff and customers safe,' Mr Zahra added.

Representatives from Coles and Woolworths have reassured their shoppers that footage from these cameras would be stored for no longer than 'a few weeks' and that their cameras complied with Australian laws on privacy.

In 2021, Woolworths also introduced a similar bold security measure for the safety of their employees and was widely praised by shoppers.

'The use of these cameras has seen a substantial reduction in the amount of abusive and physical incidents our stores team members have faced,' a Woolies spokesperson said.

Woolworths has also recently ramped up security efforts with its high-tech cameras at self-checkouts. This move has been widely criticised as customers said that the relentless surveillance on shoppers is 'completely unacceptable'.

You can read more about this here.

It's clear that some customers still feel far from being at ease with all these measures with one SDC member, @Punkywinner, saying: 'I am sorry, but I do not consent to myself or my family being recorded... they are not police officers.'

'This is an invasion of our privacy. Perhaps, if food [and] essential items were more affordable... stealing wouldn't be so prevalent!'

While other SDC members expressed their support for the supermarkets' initiatives:

'Anything that stops theft has got to be a good thing…' member @countryman said.

While member @Liz said: 'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books. I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place, under the privacy act.'

And member @Skeeta22 added: 'Isn't it a shame that retailers have had to resort to this? We all pay the price in the end for theft. I applaud retailers for taking this stand against dishonest people…'

Australian Privacy Foundation Vice-Chair, Dr Monique Mann, urges a reconsideration of these strategies and suggests an alternate approach that doesn't necessarily depend on surveillance.

'Let's think about why are we seeing increases in people shoplifting.'

'Why are people being aggressive towards staff? People are struggling. At the same time, Coles and Woolworths are recording massive (in excess of a billion dollars) profits amid a cost of living crisis.'

'Maybe they should think about that and try to alleviate [the] cost of living pressures rather than just expand surveillance and their profits,' Dr Mann said.

In response, Paul Zahra highlighted an often overlooked factor—the theft that costs Australian retailers an estimated $9 billion annually despite many being unreported.

'Cameras do not record personal information or have facial recognition. Any footage that is recorded is done so in line with all relevant laws and company privacy policy,' Mr Zahra noted.

'Retailers use these technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws and have strict protocols in place.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles and Woolworths, Australia's two largest supermarkets, are implementing high-tech security measures, including AI cameras and body-worn cameras, to combat theft and violent behaviour in stores.
• Experts and privacy campaigners have raised concerns, stating that these measures could lead to a sense of 'distrust' and 'trauma' in customers and unfairly target vulnerable individuals.
• Retail advocates argue that the technology is being trialled within privacy laws and aims to protect staff and customers, with Coles stating the majority of customers do the right thing and these measures target those who do not.
• While some applaud the measures taken for staff's safety, others express concerns over privacy issues and the increasing surveillance in the stores. Dr Mann, vice-chair of the Australian Privacy Foundation, suggests retailers should consider other approaches.

Members, have you seen these security measures in your local grocery? What are your thoughts on these security measures being implemented at your local supermarkets? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

the days of trust are in the past.

 

[Jest]

Shoplifting will continue no matter what they do, it’s always been a problem and nothing to do with the cost of living.

if they can't leave the shop they are caught.

 

[AlanQ]

'Cameras do not record personal information or have facial recognition. Any footage that is recorded is done so in line with all relevant laws and company privacy policy,' Mr Zahra noted.

Not true, Bunnings has an A4 size sign on entry to their stores that: facial recognition/recording technology maybe in use. I'm assuming the same applies at the supermarkets, but given the size multitude of entrances it would fade into obscurity amongst all the signage for items on sale etc.

 

[Trudi]

I have no issues with security cameras in stores.

 

[Veggiepatch]

I have no issues with security cameras in stores.

Just stand there, smile at the camera and scratch your nether regions.

I'm definitely doing that! For shits and giggles!

 

[Trudi]

Just stand there, smile at the camera and scratch your nether regions.

I'm definitely doing that! For shits and giggles!

That is such a guy thing! Not something I would dream of doing.

 

[HappyPam]

I always present my shopping bags with goods bought in other shops to the checkout staff and ask them if they want to check it. If you are honest then there is nothing to either fear or object to!

 

[LubblyJubbly]

If you don't like it you can just shop online - no one is forcing you to go into the store you poor little bunnies.

 

[Mran]

Technology has mingled its way into our everyday lives, but the convenience and advances it brings have not come without their downsides. Some of which even have implications on privacy.

Such a situation is hard to ignore, especially in the context of recent news where Coles supermarket is trialling 'innovative' security solutions such as 'smart gateway technology', which is aimed at reducing the issue of theft in its stores.

Described as a necessary move to combat the skyrocketing $9 billion-a-year issue of theft, Australia's two biggest supermarkets have started to roll out a plethora of stringent security measures.

However, some experts have voiced fears about an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers while in stores.

View attachment 30160

Security measures being implemented at Coles may be causing an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers. Image sources: Shutterstock (left), kjpargeter on Freepik (right).

In an attempt to suppress criminal activity and protect staff from an apparent surge in violent behaviour, Coles has introduced various advanced technologies into its stores nationwide.

Among these are overhead cameras designed to track shoppers' every move, artificial intelligence-enabled (AI) cameras at checkouts, and 'smart gates' that automatically lock if customers try to leave without paying for their goods.

Another recently implemented strategy by Coles is the use of body-worn cameras—already familiar to some Woolworths shoppers and to others as the technology used by police and bouncers. This measure will be put to trial across Coles’ 'high-risk' stores for the projection of their staff against any type of violence.

However, privacy campaigners have not been slow in criticising these developments, indicating that such excessive surveillance could put an unnecessary burden on shoppers and disproportionately impact society's most vulnerable members, with Deakin University Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Mary Ilias, warning of a culture of fear spurred by excessive surveillance.

The cameras, according to Dr Illias, may also 'exacerbate feelings of trauma and distrust' for those with vulnerabilities.

She expressed her fear of innocent people being unfairly targeted—individuals who may appear unsettled or shaky due to physical or mental conditions—causing unnecessary distress.

Retailers argue that this technology would not be put into action if customers were not happy with it.

'It's important to note that the majority of customers do the right thing in store. Measures like this are for the ones who don't,' a Coles spokesperson said.

'New technology such as body cameras is being tested by some stores here and overseas and is being done so within privacy laws and with careful attention to staff and customer feedback,' Paul Zahra, Australian Retailers Association Chief Executive said.

'It's in retailers' interests to keep their customers comfortable and at ease in stores and this kind of technology is first and foremost to keep frontline retail staff and customers safe,' Mr Zahra added.

Representatives from Coles and Woolworths have reassured their shoppers that footage from these cameras would be stored for no longer than 'a few weeks' and that their cameras complied with Australian laws on privacy.

In 2021, Woolworths also introduced a similar bold security measure for the safety of their employees and was widely praised by shoppers.

'The use of these cameras has seen a substantial reduction in the amount of abusive and physical incidents our stores team members have faced,' a Woolies spokesperson said.

Woolworths has also recently ramped up security efforts with its high-tech cameras at self-checkouts. This move has been widely criticised as customers said that the relentless surveillance on shoppers is 'completely unacceptable'.

You can read more about this here.

It's clear that some customers still feel far from being at ease with all these measures with one SDC member, @Punkywinner, saying: 'I am sorry, but I do not consent to myself or my family being recorded... they are not police officers.'

'This is an invasion of our privacy. Perhaps, if food [and] essential items were more affordable... stealing wouldn't be so prevalent!'

While other SDC members expressed their support for the supermarkets' initiatives:

'Anything that stops theft has got to be a good thing…' member @countryman said.

While member @Liz said: 'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books. I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place, under the privacy act.'

And member @Skeeta22 added: 'Isn't it a shame that retailers have had to resort to this? We all pay the price in the end for theft. I applaud retailers for taking this stand against dishonest people…'

Australian Privacy Foundation Vice-Chair, Dr Monique Mann, urges a reconsideration of these strategies and suggests an alternate approach that doesn't necessarily depend on surveillance.

'Let's think about why are we seeing increases in people shoplifting.'

'Why are people being aggressive towards staff? People are struggling. At the same time, Coles and Woolworths are recording massive (in excess of a billion dollars) profits amid a cost of living crisis.'

'Maybe they should think about that and try to alleviate [the] cost of living pressures rather than just expand surveillance and their profits,' Dr Mann said.

In response, Paul Zahra highlighted an often overlooked factor—the theft that costs Australian retailers an estimated $9 billion annually despite many being unreported.

'Cameras do not record personal information or have facial recognition. Any footage that is recorded is done so in line with all relevant laws and company privacy policy,' Mr Zahra noted.

'Retailers use these technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws and have strict protocols in place.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles and Woolworths, Australia's two largest supermarkets, are implementing high-tech security measures, including AI cameras and body-worn cameras, to combat theft and violent behaviour in stores.
• Experts and privacy campaigners have raised concerns, stating that these measures could lead to a sense of 'distrust' and 'trauma' in customers and unfairly target vulnerable individuals.
• Retail advocates argue that the technology is being trialled within privacy laws and aims to protect staff and customers, with Coles stating the majority of customers do the right thing and these measures target those who do not.
• While some applaud the measures taken for staff's safety, others express concerns over privacy issues and the increasing surveillance in the stores. Dr Mann, vice-chair of the Australian Privacy Foundation, suggests retailers should consider other approaches.

Members, have you seen these security measures in your local grocery? What are your thoughts on these security measures being implemented at your local supermarkets? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

Having worked in a supermarket I do not see a problem with this security. Theft creates a situation where 1. Prices may go up. 2. goods are withdrawn from sale resulting in others not being able to purchase those goods. 3. goods being stolen are often things like makeup. In our store it was hair colouring, it got to the point where the boxes were placed on the shelves empty and the customer had to bring the empty box to check out and the contents were put in the box. an inconvenience for customers and extra work for the emplayees. We also got a security person who continuously walked around the store, it was amazing how many people did not like this especially those that were known to pocket products.

 

[elaine41]

If you don't like it you can just shop online - no one is forcing you to go into the store you poor little bunnies.

My first thought with your answer is - I don't want someone else choosing my goods (& often substituting out of stock items with something totally useless). I would still have to drive to WW to pick up the goods that have been chosen for me so what's the point? No delivery service if you live in the country areas of this great state.

 

[elaine41]

As a 15 y.o. (& that was many many moons ago) I started working at David Jones & there were floor walkers (now called security guards) even then. These people were dressed just like any other shopper & continually walked the store keeping goods & staff safe so this is not some new idea. However, the idea of being photographed against my will is another matter altogether. If I see it happening in my local WW I will take to wearing a hat low down on my forehead & go back to wearing a mask. I have the right to privacy when I shop.

 

[Go Cats]

The first thing that strikes me is the increase in security staff, both overt and covert, in stores. This is at a time when in-store staff is being reduced.

Another consideration is the use of video footage for nefarious purposes by staff. These security videos would be timestamped and a staff member could access credit card details of a shopper using any checkout. Transaction details are stored and may be retrieved by staff anytime. Combine these two and you have an avenue of a potential stalker, or worse.

You think all this is a bit farfetched? I just thought of it and I'm not into this type of criminal behaviour.

Mmmmmm! No,I don't think it's farfetched at all,you bring up a good point, especially with the card details.

 

[Leenie]

Just stand there, smile at the camera and scratch your nether regions.

I'm definitely doing that! For shits and giggles!

You really are naughty .

 

[Leenie]

I always present my shopping bags with goods bought in other shops to the checkout staff and ask them if they want to check it. If you are honest then there is nothing to either fear or object to!

They are overstepping the mark .

 

[Veggiepatch]

Legally, no store employee or security staff are permitted to open your bag and go through the contents. Only police. If they do so, they are technically committing assault and may be charged with such.

Probably mentioned before, but I had a tug of war with my mobile phone with a security clown at the front of the CBA, Dandenong Plaza. Further investigation with police proved that this clown was acting outside his roles and responsibilities of his job and could have been in big trouble.

A word of advice. Check your state laws regarding bag checks and searches. You may be surprised at the powers that security staff DON'T have.

 

[Tygie]

Technology has mingled its way into our everyday lives, but the convenience and advances it brings have not come without their downsides. Some of which even have implications on privacy.

Such a situation is hard to ignore, especially in the context of recent news where Coles supermarket is trialling 'innovative' security solutions such as 'smart gateway technology', which is aimed at reducing the issue of theft in its stores.

Described as a necessary move to combat the skyrocketing $9 billion-a-year issue of theft, Australia's two biggest supermarkets have started to roll out a plethora of stringent security measures.

However, some experts have voiced fears about an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers while in stores.

View attachment 30160

Security measures being implemented at Coles may be causing an undercurrent of 'distrust' and even 'trauma' for some shoppers. Image sources: Shutterstock (left), kjpargeter on Freepik (right).

In an attempt to suppress criminal activity and protect staff from an apparent surge in violent behaviour, Coles has introduced various advanced technologies into its stores nationwide.

Among these are overhead cameras designed to track shoppers' every move, artificial intelligence-enabled (AI) cameras at checkouts, and 'smart gates' that automatically lock if customers try to leave without paying for their goods.

Another recently implemented strategy by Coles is the use of body-worn cameras—already familiar to some Woolworths shoppers and to others as the technology used by police and bouncers. This measure will be put to trial across Coles’ 'high-risk' stores for the projection of their staff against any type of violence.

However, privacy campaigners have not been slow in criticising these developments, indicating that such excessive surveillance could put an unnecessary burden on shoppers and disproportionately impact society's most vulnerable members, with Deakin University Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Mary Ilias, warning of a culture of fear spurred by excessive surveillance.

The cameras, according to Dr Illias, may also 'exacerbate feelings of trauma and distrust' for those with vulnerabilities.

She expressed her fear of innocent people being unfairly targeted—individuals who may appear unsettled or shaky due to physical or mental conditions—causing unnecessary distress.

Retailers argue that this technology would not be put into action if customers were not happy with it.

'It's important to note that the majority of customers do the right thing in store. Measures like this are for the ones who don't,' a Coles spokesperson said.

'New technology such as body cameras is being tested by some stores here and overseas and is being done so within privacy laws and with careful attention to staff and customer feedback,' Paul Zahra, Australian Retailers Association Chief Executive said.

'It's in retailers' interests to keep their customers comfortable and at ease in stores and this kind of technology is first and foremost to keep frontline retail staff and customers safe,' Mr Zahra added.

Representatives from Coles and Woolworths have reassured their shoppers that footage from these cameras would be stored for no longer than 'a few weeks' and that their cameras complied with Australian laws on privacy.

In 2021, Woolworths also introduced a similar bold security measure for the safety of their employees and was widely praised by shoppers.

'The use of these cameras has seen a substantial reduction in the amount of abusive and physical incidents our stores team members have faced,' a Woolies spokesperson said.

Woolworths has also recently ramped up security efforts with its high-tech cameras at self-checkouts. This move has been widely criticised as customers said that the relentless surveillance on shoppers is 'completely unacceptable'.

You can read more about this here.

It's clear that some customers still feel far from being at ease with all these measures with one SDC member, @Punkywinner, saying: 'I am sorry, but I do not consent to myself or my family being recorded... they are not police officers.'

'This is an invasion of our privacy. Perhaps, if food [and] essential items were more affordable... stealing wouldn't be so prevalent!'

While other SDC members expressed their support for the supermarkets' initiatives:

'Anything that stops theft has got to be a good thing…' member @countryman said.

While member @Liz said: 'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books. I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place, under the privacy act.'

And member @Skeeta22 added: 'Isn't it a shame that retailers have had to resort to this? We all pay the price in the end for theft. I applaud retailers for taking this stand against dishonest people…'

Australian Privacy Foundation Vice-Chair, Dr Monique Mann, urges a reconsideration of these strategies and suggests an alternate approach that doesn't necessarily depend on surveillance.

'Let's think about why are we seeing increases in people shoplifting.'

'Why are people being aggressive towards staff? People are struggling. At the same time, Coles and Woolworths are recording massive (in excess of a billion dollars) profits amid a cost of living crisis.'

'Maybe they should think about that and try to alleviate [the] cost of living pressures rather than just expand surveillance and their profits,' Dr Mann said.

In response, Paul Zahra highlighted an often overlooked factor—the theft that costs Australian retailers an estimated $9 billion annually despite many being unreported.

'Cameras do not record personal information or have facial recognition. Any footage that is recorded is done so in line with all relevant laws and company privacy policy,' Mr Zahra noted.

'Retailers use these technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws and have strict protocols in place.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles and Woolworths, Australia's two largest supermarkets, are implementing high-tech security measures, including AI cameras and body-worn cameras, to combat theft and violent behaviour in stores.
• Experts and privacy campaigners have raised concerns, stating that these measures could lead to a sense of 'distrust' and 'trauma' in customers and unfairly target vulnerable individuals.
• Retail advocates argue that the technology is being trialled within privacy laws and aims to protect staff and customers, with Coles stating the majority of customers do the right thing and these measures target those who do not.
• While some applaud the measures taken for staff's safety, others express concerns over privacy issues and the increasing surveillance in the stores. Dr Mann, vice-chair of the Australian Privacy Foundation, suggests retailers should consider other approaches.

Members, have you seen these security measures in your local grocery? What are your thoughts on these security measures being implemented at your local supermarkets? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

Between ripping everyone off with high prices and treating everyone like criminals they'll end up losing a lot of customers.