Wegman’s using Facial Recognition – who’s next?

Wegmans locations have recently begun deploying facial recognition technology in select stores—primarily in high-risk areas—to enhance security and identify individuals previously flagged for misconduct. This move has sparked significant concern among shoppers about biometric surveillance and privacy.

What’s Happening?
• Facial Scanning in Stores
Wegmans has introduced cameras equipped with facial recognition systems in a small number of its stores—especially in Massachusetts, New York, and other regions where loss prevention is a concern. However, it’s currently confirmed in two New York City locations (Manhattan and Brooklyn), where signage is required by local law.
• Technology Scope
Despite signage indicating the potential collection of “facial images, eye scans, and voiceprints,” the company has clarified that only facial recognition data is being collected—not eye scans or voiceprints.
• Purpose & Usage
Wegmans states this system is used strictly to identify individuals who have been flagged for misconduct, such as shoplifting or related incidents, and not for broader public surveillance.
• Data Retention & Sharing
Collected facial data is retained only “as long as necessary for security purposes” and is not shared with third parties. The specific retention duration is undisclosed.

Public and Expert Reactions
• Customer Concerns
Many shoppers say the facial scanning caught them by surprise, calling the system “invasive” and worrying about where the data might end up.
• Privacy & Bias Risks
Privacy experts highlight that biometric data is highly sensitive—unlike passwords, it can’t be changed. There are also concerns over misidentification and potential bias in facial recognition systems.
• Legal and Regulatory Context
In New York City, businesses using biometric systems must post signs under a 2021 law. But there are no strong enforcement or data deletion mandates, leading critics to describe this as “disclosure without consumer protection”

No Comprehensive Private Biometric Privacy Law Yet
• Unlike Illinois or California, Massachusetts does not currently have a specific law requiring private companies to obtain consent before collecting biometric data, such as facial scans, from consumers.
• There is also no Massachusetts requirement for signage or public notices about biometric data collection in private retail settings.
• Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 6 § 220 regulates law enforcement facial recognition use, requiring warrants and documentation, but does not apply to private retailers like Wegmans.
Senate Bill 43, introduced in March 2025, would require:
• Written notice and explicit consent for biometrics collection.
• Limits on how long biometric data can be stored.
• Prohibitions on selling or trading biometric data.
The bill has passed the Senate and awaits House action. If enacted, Wegmans would need to promptly comply.

CNN Report:
Wegmans is scanning your face at some stores. It’s not the only company

Wegmans Official Statement:
Wegmans Statement on Facial Recognition Technology – Wegmans