The dystopian future envisioned by Philip K. Dick in "Minority Report" is one step closer to becoming reality if one gas station in Portland, Oregon is bellwether.
A TikTok showing a gas station in Portland using facial recognition technology to grant access to its store is making the rounds on social media again.
@karmifaye This is at almost every gas station in Portland wtf I’m too small town for this futurama ass shit #future
♬ original sound - Karmi
While the original video was posted in 2020, the TikTok resurfacing is leaving users wondering whether what they're seeing on the screen is actually real.
Jacksons gas stations in Portland have been using the technology since at least 2019, according to a local news report, in an effort to prevent theft and potential danger by controlling who is let into the convenience stores.
Blue Line Technology designed the software used in the technology and the company says its facial recognition tech has "reduced robberies and product loss in retail assisted companies to improve OSHA workplace safety and violence compliance."
Some of the citizens of Portland don't like the idea of having their faces in a private database, so they filed a complaint against Jacksons Food Stores. The complaint cites two ordinances passed by the city in September 2020 that prohibited the use of facial recognition tech “in places of public accommodation by any private entity within the boundaries of the city of Portland.”
The technology is becoming increasingly popular for retailers in the UK, according to a recent CNN report, with the CEO of Facewatch telling the news service that demand for his company's products are growing "exponentially."
For about 250 pounds ($320) per month, Facewatch offers subscribers access to a customize watchlist that stores near one another share of shoplifters.
When the system spots a face that has been flagged an alert is sent to a smartphone alerting the store of the presence of a potential shoplifter.
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