Target Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Biometric Data Collection Without Consent
Target, the popular retail chain, is currently facing a class action lawsuit in Illinois over allegations that the company collected and stored biometric data from customers without their consent. The lawsuit, filed by Arnetta Dean in March, claims that Target violated the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) by not informing customers that their biometric data, obtained through facial recognition technology and fingerprinting, was being stored and used without their written consent.
The lawsuit highlights the potential risks associated with the unauthorized collection of biometric data, stating that if this data is compromised in a breach, customers could be at risk for identity theft as it is uniquely identifiable to each individual and considered highly sensitive personal information.
According to court documents, Target’s stores in Illinois are equipped with advanced video surveillance systems that collect biometric data without customers’ knowledge. The lawsuit alleges that Target fails to notify customers of this practice, which is a violation of BIPA.
BIPA, enacted in Illinois in 2008, requires companies to inform customers in writing about the collection and storage of their biometric data, as well as the purpose and duration of its use. Target is accused of operating a vast network of cameras across its locations in Illinois to gather intelligence and mitigate business risks.
Arnetta Dean is seeking damages for the alleged violations of BIPA, including $5,000 for each intentional reckless violation and $1,000 for any negligent violation, as well as attorney fees and expenses. Target, which has numerous locations in Illinois, has not yet responded to the allegations.