Tesco's checkout cameras spark privacy concerns amidst theft rise
In certain Tesco stores across the UK, new technology has been introduced, swiftly drawing comparisons to the VAR system known from football. Cameras installed above self-checkout counters are designed to help detect potential theft by displaying a video "replay" to the customer if a product isn't scanned correctly. This move has left many individuals feeling outraged.
The BBC reports that with the new system, a message sometimes appears on the screen: "The last item was not scanned correctly. Remove it from the packing area and try again." A recording demonstrating the system's operation appeared on BriBantz's Instagram profile, where it has been viewed nearly 4 million times.
In theory, the innovation aims to streamline shopping, but in practice, many customers feel cornered.
The new technology is a response to the increasing incidence of shoplifting in the United Kingdom. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2024, England and Wales recorded as many as 516,971 of these crimes - 20% more than the previous year.
The British Retail Consortium estimates that in the 12 months up to September 2024, there were over 20 million thefts in stores, costing businesses £2 billion.
"Surveillance technologies"
Nevertheless, Tesco is not alone - the Sainsbury’s chain has introduced similar systems. Some customers, however, complain that the technology is too invasive and makes honest customers feel as if they are being treated like suspects.
