Shoppers in the Bronx are raising questions about whether Burlington Coat Factory is using facial recognition technology at its stores. Customers say they’ve noticed cameras positioned at the entrance and throughout the store, and one employee reportedly told a local news crew that the system can identify people who may have previously stolen.
Burlington, however, denies the use of facial recognition. A company spokesperson told News12 that while the retailer does use cameras and other surveillance tools for loss prevention, it does not employ facial recognition technology in any of its stores.
The report notes that cameras appear to record patrons as soon as they walk in, and some shoppers believe the setup feels like a new level of monitoring. Privacy advocates warn that without transparency, customers may be left uncertain about how their images are being used.
As retail theft continues to be a challenge for major chains, companies like Burlington are increasing their reliance on surveillance measures. Still, the controversy highlights a growing debate over balancing security with customer privacy.
Customers raise questions about facial recognition at Burlington Coat Factory
Some shoppers there tell News 12 they’ve recently noticed they’re being watched, possibly by facial recognition cameras.
bronx.news12.com
