Store owners worldwide use artificial intelligence to detect thieves. Video surveillance systems can be connected with AI without new cameras. AI observes human behavior that a person might not notice.
The use of AI for surveillance raises privacy concerns. The law does not distinguish whether a human or a computer views the camera footage. The Data Protection Inspectorate states that the rules are the same regardless of the technology.
Facial recognition is a separate issue. For example, a system that alerts when a thief enters the store cannot be used. Estonian retailers wanted to use facial recognition in 2024, but it is not permitted by law.
In Europe, many stores use AI in video surveillance. In Estonia, interest is low. Only Prisma confirmed using it since 2022.
Prisma's security manager says AI helps detect unusual behavior. The system does not make decisions on its own—a human must verify everything. AI makes security work easier.
Maxima does not disclose whether it uses AI. They say theft detection is their secret. AI helps them identify unusual shopping behaviors.
Rimi, Selver, and Lidl do not use AI in video surveillance. Selver says they monitor new solutions but still use a conventional system. Rimi has not even tested it. Lidl may try it in the future.
The Data Protection Inspectorate warns that AI may send data to other countries. If camera footage shows people, the company must ensure their data is protected.