Australian hardware retail chain Bunnings was found to have breached Australians’ privacy by using facial recognition technology (FRT) in 63 stores between 2018 and 2021. The Australian Privacy Commissioner ruled that the retailer collected sensitive data without consent. Bunnings has since defended the practice, arguing it was essential for safety and crime prevention.
Bunnings released security footage of staff members being threatened and assaulted in response to findings from Australia’s privacy watchdog that the company breached the country’s privacy, News.com.au reported on Tuesday (November 19).
The retailer reportedly tested FRT in 63 stores in Victoria and New South Wales from November 2018 to November 2021.
