Shopper concerned about Bunnings' use of 'number plate recognition' technology—privacy breach or necessary security?
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Who'd have thought that heading into everyone's favourite hub for snags and DIY supplies could feel like entering a scene out of an action film?
Members, we're here to discuss a rather intriguing development from a familiar face in the retail sphere, trusty home improvement giant Bunnings Warehouse.
Earlier this month, a shopper noticed an unusual detail in the 'Conditions of Entry' signage at the newly opened Bunnings store in Preston, Melbourne.
This seemingly unsuspicious sign sparked a wave of discussion, with its mention of 'CCTV in use' and the intriguing note that says, 'Facial recognition technology may be used.'
Now, we know what you're thinking: 'Wait, wasn't that controversial face-identifying technology suspended across Bunnings stores last year?' And you'd be correct!
In June last year, Bunnings suspended its use of facial recognition software following a public backlash stirred up by an investigation from the consumer watchdog CHOICE.
However, there's no need to be concerned… yet. Bunnings has not yet reintroduced facial recognition in their stores, despite featuring the phrase on their new sign.
Reports say the software will remain on the signage as the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) carries out its investigation into the use of facial recognition at Bunnings stores.
However, in addition to the alleged use of facial recognition technology, there was another intriguing detail mentioned on the sign. Hidden in the fine print, it caught the attention of many shoppers—the mention of 'Number plate recognition technology'.
The phrase sparked speculation among customers, with some believing that Bunnings might be secretly monitoring their cars. The existence of this number plate software has generated curiosity and left certain customers feeling as though their privacy has been somewhat compromised.
According to some Bunnings shoppers and employees on social media, the mention of number plate recognition technology in Bunnings' conditions of entry signage is, in fact, new, although the technology has been in use for a while.
Apparently, Bunnings uses this system as part of its security measures in certain car parks and at trade yard entrances to help protect staff and customers from unruly or threatening behaviour, as well as assist in combating organised retail crime.
It's essentially a high-tech way of keeping an eye on the car park. It might not be a traditional neighbourhood watch, but it provides an extra layer of security.
One former Bunnings employee supported the use of number plate recognition technology, saying: 'The number plate screening has been around for a while. We would get calls when cars with reported theft came in.'
Bunnings Director of Store Operations, Ben Camire, reassured that the new signage is a staple in all stores, indicating that this isn't a one-off occurrence.
He stated, 'A few months ago, we refreshed conditions of entry signage so it has a consistent look across our store network. The signage includes guidelines for customers wishing to bring their pets in-store and detail on the use of CCTV.'
Whether we like it or not, it seems that adopting these technology-enhanced security measures is inevitable.
Now, let's hear your thoughts, folks. Are you in favour of Bunnings or other major retailers using cameras to monitor customers and their vehicles? Do you believe this can effectively discourage crimes? Feel free to share your opinions with us in the comments section below!
Members, we're here to discuss a rather intriguing development from a familiar face in the retail sphere, trusty home improvement giant Bunnings Warehouse.
Earlier this month, a shopper noticed an unusual detail in the 'Conditions of Entry' signage at the newly opened Bunnings store in Preston, Melbourne.
This seemingly unsuspicious sign sparked a wave of discussion, with its mention of 'CCTV in use' and the intriguing note that says, 'Facial recognition technology may be used.'
A shopper spotted this sign at Bunnings' new store in Melbourne. Credit: Reddit.
Now, we know what you're thinking: 'Wait, wasn't that controversial face-identifying technology suspended across Bunnings stores last year?' And you'd be correct!
In June last year, Bunnings suspended its use of facial recognition software following a public backlash stirred up by an investigation from the consumer watchdog CHOICE.
However, there's no need to be concerned… yet. Bunnings has not yet reintroduced facial recognition in their stores, despite featuring the phrase on their new sign.
Reports say the software will remain on the signage as the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) carries out its investigation into the use of facial recognition at Bunnings stores.
However, in addition to the alleged use of facial recognition technology, there was another intriguing detail mentioned on the sign. Hidden in the fine print, it caught the attention of many shoppers—the mention of 'Number plate recognition technology'.
The phrase sparked speculation among customers, with some believing that Bunnings might be secretly monitoring their cars. The existence of this number plate software has generated curiosity and left certain customers feeling as though their privacy has been somewhat compromised.
According to some Bunnings shoppers and employees on social media, the mention of number plate recognition technology in Bunnings' conditions of entry signage is, in fact, new, although the technology has been in use for a while.
Apparently, Bunnings uses this system as part of its security measures in certain car parks and at trade yard entrances to help protect staff and customers from unruly or threatening behaviour, as well as assist in combating organised retail crime.
It's essentially a high-tech way of keeping an eye on the car park. It might not be a traditional neighbourhood watch, but it provides an extra layer of security.
One former Bunnings employee supported the use of number plate recognition technology, saying: 'The number plate screening has been around for a while. We would get calls when cars with reported theft came in.'
Bunnings Director of Store Operations, Ben Camire, reassured that the new signage is a staple in all stores, indicating that this isn't a one-off occurrence.
He stated, 'A few months ago, we refreshed conditions of entry signage so it has a consistent look across our store network. The signage includes guidelines for customers wishing to bring their pets in-store and detail on the use of CCTV.'
Whether we like it or not, it seems that adopting these technology-enhanced security measures is inevitable.
Now, let's hear your thoughts, folks. Are you in favour of Bunnings or other major retailers using cameras to monitor customers and their vehicles? Do you believe this can effectively discourage crimes? Feel free to share your opinions with us in the comments section below!
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