ROCHESTER, N.Y. — On Monday, Wegmans acknowledged using facial recognition technology in a “small fraction” of its stores, the company said in a statement. The technology helps identify shoppers previously flagged for misconduct.

News10NBC’s Erin Mahon spoke with shoppers outside the Wegmans on East Avenue to gather their reactions.

Wegmans did not specify which stores use the technology and did not respond to requests for clarification. The company stated it doesn’t collect other biometric data like retinal scans or voice prints.

Most shoppers were unaware of the new technology, which seems to be a common complaint for some, as they hoped for more notice of new features.

“Technology’s, like, moving so fast. So I understand, getting with the times. But then at the same time, I think it should be like consent or at least letting people know, even if it’s a sign, you know, you walk in like someone’s aware so they can have a choice if they want to actually be in the space or not,” said Christian Chalmers, a Wegmans shopper.

“I’m kind of used to it doesn’t bother me, but I know a lot of people are in an uproar about it because, I mean, you have your information and they don’t know where it’s going,” said Carly Colombo.

“I’m old school. Now that you tell me everybody has it I guess I’ll accept it, but that’s just the way it is now,” added Jim Colombo.

Wegmans is not alone in collecting facial recognition data. Home Depot’s privacy policy states it also collects this information through cameras inside and outside its stores.

A bill, called the Biometric Privacy Act, is currently moving through the state legislature. It would require consent and data retention standards for stores that collect and use biometric information. Currently, there is no law specifying these limits in New York.

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