62-year-old woman added to facial recognition watchlist over 39p paracetamol
06/06/2025 | The Guardian
A 62-year-old woman from Romford has filed a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) after discovering that she was placed on a facial recognition watchlist at a Home Bargains store following a dispute over a 39p pack of paracetamol. The woman first learned of her inclusion on the banned customer database when she returned to the store and was promptly asked to leave again.
The woman denies the allegation of theft, which transpired after staff searched her bag and confiscated her own paracetamol. Furthermore, she claims the experience has caused her significant distress and impacted her confidence to shop alone.
The complaint argues that the Data Protection Act 2018 requires there to be a "substantial public interest" in order for the processing of biometric data to be lawful. Her solicitor, Alex Lawrence-Archer, said the case highlights how individuals can be added to biometric watchlists for minor suspected offences without proper notification or the chance to present their side.
In a statement, Madeleine Stone, Senior Advocacy Officer at Big Brother Watch, said that this "story is clear evidence of the profound and damaging impact facial recognition is having on the public’s rights."
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