Biometrics Institute encourages balanced discussion about responsible use of biometric technology in retail
In the wake of the investigation by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) initiated yesterday into the Australian retailer Bunnings using CCTV footage utilising facial recognition technology, the Biometrics Institute emphasises the need for a balanced approach to security solutions in the retail sector. While protecting customer privacy is paramount, retailers also grapple with significant challenges related to theft and staff safety.
Striking a balance between privacy and security
“The Bunnings case underscores the critical importance of data privacy,” says Isabelle Moeller, CEO of the Biometrics Institute. “However, retailers also have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their employees and customers. Biometrics can play an important role in helping achieve this, but only if implemented responsibly and in accordance with data protection regulations.”
A question of consent and meaningful stakeholder consultation
The Bunnings use case demonstrates once again the challenge of what consent should look like. Different people will have different views on whether a sign at the entrance of the store is sufficient or big enough. What would be a reasonable alternative that would have the same positive result of protecting staff? Would armed security guards be a better approach?
Meaningful stakeholder consultation, openness, transparency, data security and testing are approaches the Institute promotes as critical factors in whether the use of biometrics is proportionate.
This aligns with the Three Laws of Biometrics, and addresses concerns around misidentification due to potential machine errors and privacy due to the sensitive nature of biometric data.
“Our Good Practice Framework and Privacy Guidelines offer valuable guidance for retailers navigating the complexities of biometrics,” said Moeller. “We encourage retailers to engage with testing laboratories, the Institute, and its diverse community of experts to ensure responsible, ethical, and effective use of biometrics.”
To learn more about responsible biometric implementation in retail and other sectors, watch the On the Pulse Conversation “Beyond the checkout”. Join trusted conversations shaping the future of biometrics by attending the Biometrics Institute’s Showcase Australia 2024 in Canberra on 4 December and engage with industry leaders, regulators, and privacy advocates to ensure the ethical and effective use of biometrics.
ENDS
About the Biometrics Institute
The Biometrics Institute is the independent and impartial international membership organisation for biometric users and other interested parties. It was established in 2001 to promote the responsible, ethical and effective use of biometrics and has offices in London and Sydney.
The member register which represents a global and diverse multi-stakeholder community now lists over 190 membership organisations from 34 countries. It includes banks, airlines, government agencies, biometric experts, privacy experts, suppliers, academics and 10 Observers representing United Nations agencies, IGOs and European Union institutions.
The Biometrics Institute connects the global biometrics community. It shares knowledge with its members and key stakeholders and most importantly, develops good practices and thought leadership for the responsible, ethical and effective use of biometrics.
For more information, please email Marco Lombardi.
