Wegmans grocery stores in New York City have begun implementing biometric data collection, with new signage appearing at their Manhattan and Brooklyn locations. According to ABC7NY, the collected information includes facial recognition, eye scans, and voiceprints and is intended to enhance security.
Wegmans’ decision to retain biometric data marks a change from its earlier statement that information collected during a pilot program would be deleted. Some shoppers have expressed concern about the indefinite storage of their personal data. As per Gothamist, shopper Johnny Jerido said he was uncomfortable with the policy, noting his worries about being perceived as doing something illegal.
Legislative efforts in the City Council to limit biometric data storage by businesses have not advanced. A bill introduced in 2023, following an incident in which biometrics were used to identify and remove individuals involved in litigation against Madison Square Garden, has seen no progress. Existing laws require businesses like Wegmans to notify the public about their biometric data collection practices, but enforcement appears limited. A spokesperson for the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection noted that customers can pursue legal action on their own if they choose.
Privacy concerns also involve the potential misuse of biometric data. Will Owen, a privacy advocate with the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, told Gothamist that immigrant New Yorkers may worry about their sensitive information being accessed by agencies like ICE. The storage of such data has led some customers, including Blaze Herbas, to rethink where they shop. She told Gothamist that people should be able to shop without their personal data being collected.
Wegmans has not responded to questions regarding how the biometric data will be stored, the reasons for the policy change, or whether the information could be shared with law enforcement. The absence of details leaves shoppers to decide whether to accept the new terms or look for alternative grocery options.
