This statement follows an investigation into the use of this technology by four stores Canadian tire. The commissioner points this out in a report (New window) (in English) that stores failed to adequately notify customers and obtain their consent to the collection of personal information.

Even if businesses did get their consent, the report said they would have to demonstrate that the collection and use of the data was for a reasonable purpose.

The investigation showed that they had not done so.

Twelve shops canadian tire, All four of those under investigation used facial recognition technology between 2018 and 2021 and said it was necessary to fight theft and keep staff safe.

However, the channel removed the systems and destroyed the information when the commissioner informed Canadian tire the ongoing investigations.

Highest sensitivity

According to Michael McEvoy, this type of personal information is enough the highest level of sensitivity.

Data protection authorities largely agree that facial recognition technology is processing sensitive information in an invasive waysays the report.

Face recognition technology works by taking an image of a person’s face, usually with a camera or video, and then creating a mathematical representation of facial features and exact proportions. This reduced-to-template rendering is then compared to a database of stored biometric facial data representing a specific population.

According to the report, the cameras recorded the passage of customers, employees, contractors and even minors as they entered the premises.

Change the laws

Michael McEvoy argues that a robust process must be put in place to assess the effectiveness of any new technology that collects personal information before that technology is implemented.

He recommends companies develop and maintain a privacy management program.

According to Michael McEvoy, the British Columbia government should change the laws governing the sale of biometric technology and create additional obligations for organizations that use it.

The commissioner specified that locksmiths, security guards or those who install alarm systems are obliged to comply with the law and the regulation on security services.

However, companies offering biometric security services and products such as facial recognition are not subject to the same oversight, the commissioner argues: This discrepancy represents a deep regulatory gap.

Canadian tire said in a statement that the company is committed to privacy and data protection. She adds that the facial recognition technology has not been used in company-owned stores or offices.

Although the shops Canadian tire are independently owned and operated by Associate Merchants, the company and the merchants have mutually agreed to ban the use of facial recognition technology in stores Canadian tireit says in the statement. Customers can rest assured that no matter where they shop in our group, their privacy is protected.