Target's Surveillance: Are Shoppers Being Watched?

Target has implemented several security measures to deter theft and protect its assets, including the use of surveillance cameras. The retailer has adapted its systems following a spike in theft, and now utilizes an array of security cameras and in-store security guards to prevent and combat shoplifting. With its advanced camera technology, Target can effectively track and identify potential criminals across different store locations, contributing to its comprehensive crime prevention strategy.

How does Target use surveillance cameras to prevent shoplifting?

Target has adapted its security systems, including surveillance cameras, to protect its assets following a spike in theft. The company operates one of the most advanced loss-prevention operations in the country, with a range of visual, audio, and latent print technologies to deter and catch thieves. Target monitors its cameras in-store 24/7 through on-site security, which sends the footage to its investigation centres. Target's camera technology is so advanced that it can track potential criminals from store to store, identifying features such as clothing patterns and hairstyles. The company will retain all evidence of shoplifters to hand over to the police for prosecution.

Target also uses facial recognition software to identify potential criminals and build a profile of them. The company keeps thorough records of noted shoplifters, including video recordings, fingerprints, facial IDs, and camera footage of the crimes being committed. Target has 23 investigation centres and two forensic centres where security footage and other data are studied. The company's forensic services laboratory is one of 390 crime labs accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory/Laboratory Accreditation Board due to its dedication to developing audio, visual, and latent print technologies.

In addition to its extensive camera system, Target employs several in-store security guards to combat loss prevention and keep the peace. Some of these security guards are undercover, dressed in regular clothes, and posed as ordinary shoppers. They monitor the situation and prevent potential issues.

Target has a number of measures and procedures to combat loss prevention. If someone attempts to steal from the store, they may be permanently banned from the premises and escorted off-site any time they try to enter. They may also be interviewed by a member of Target's Asset Protection scheme and be liable for further criminal charges.

What other security measures does Target use?

Target has implemented several security measures to protect its assets and ensure the safety of its staff and shoppers. In addition to its extensive use of surveillance cameras, the company employs a range of security measures, both technological and human-based, to combat loss prevention and maintain peace.

Firstly, Target has a dedicated team of security guards who are present in stores to deter potential criminals and maintain order. This security presence includes both clearly identified guards and undercover personnel dressed in regular clothes, who can monitor the situation discreetly and prevent issues from escalating.

Secondly, Target operates a sophisticated loss-prevention operation, utilising visual, audio, and latent print technologies. This includes the use of facial recognition software and fingerprint identification, allowing them to build profiles of potential criminals and prosecute theft effectively. Target also employs forensic laboratories to assist in investigations and gather evidence, such as fingerprint analysis.

Thirdly, Target operates 23 investigation centres and 2 forensic centres where security footage and other data are studied. These centres play a crucial role in analysing and responding to security threats, ensuring the safety of staff and shoppers, and challenging organised retail crime, loss of merchandise, and violent felonies.

Additionally, Target has a close collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, enabling a swift response to incidents of suspected shoplifting or other criminal activities. The company also maintains a record of noted shoplifters, including video recordings, fingerprints, facial IDs, and camera footage of the crimes committed. This information is retained and shared with the police to aid in the apprehension and prosecution of criminals.

Moreover, Target prioritises cybersecurity and has a dedicated team of hundreds of experts working around the clock to safeguard the company and its guests' information. This team employs cutting-edge tools and technologies to prevent and mitigate potential cyber threats, demonstrating Target's commitment to staying ahead of evolving cybercrime.

Overall, Target's security measures encompass both physical and cyber security, utilising advanced technologies, human resources, and collaboration with law enforcement to create a safe and secure environment for its customers and staff.

How does Target monitor all its cameras?

Target has implemented a methodical security and loss prevention program that includes surveillance cameras to protect its assets and apprehend shoplifters. The company monitors its cameras 24/7 through on-site security, sending footage to its investigation centres. Target operates one of the most advanced loss-prevention operations in the US, utilising visual, audio, and latent print technologies to deter and catch criminals.

Target has 23 investigation centres and 2 forensic centres where security footage is reviewed and studied. The company's forensic services laboratory is one of 390 crime labs accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory/Laboratory Accreditation Board, reflecting its commitment to advancing audio, visual, and latent print technologies. These facilities help ensure the safety of staff and shoppers, combat organised retail crime, and assist in various investigations.

Target's camera technology is advanced, capable of tracking potential criminals across different stores by identifying features like clothing patterns and hairstyles. The company retains all camera footage for approximately 30 days for security investigations. Additionally, Target uses facial recognition software to identify and build profiles of potential criminals.

To summarise, Target effectively monitors its cameras through a combination of on-site security, advanced camera technology, and dedicated investigation and forensic centres. This comprehensive approach enables the company to deter and apprehend criminals, ensuring the safety of its stores.

Does Target use facial recognition software?

Target has one of the most sophisticated security systems of any retailer, with a large number of cameras in its stores. The company has been accused of using facial recognition software to track consumer habits and build profiles of customers. However, Target has denied these claims and stated that it does not currently use facial recognition cameras.

In 2018, BuzzFeed News reported that Target had tested facial recognition software in a small number of stores to understand its ability to help prevent fraud and theft. Jenna Reck, a Target spokesperson, stated that the company posted signs at the entrance of test stores to inform shoppers about the use of facial recognition software during the test. She also said that the test had concluded and that Target did not have any plans to roll out the technology in its stores at that time. As of 2024, Target still notes in its online privacy policy that some of its store cameras "may use biometrics, including facial recognition for fraud and theft prevention and security."

In May 2024, Target was sued over its use of facial recognition tools on customers. The proposed class action alleged that Target violated shoppers' privacy by collecting biometric information without their consent to thwart shoplifting. The lawsuit claimed that Target deployed video surveillance with facial-recognition capabilities in retail locations in Illinois and failed to inform customers about the collection, purpose, and length of time the data was being stored or used.

Target's camera technology is advanced and can track potential criminals from store to store, identifying features such as clothing patterns and hairstyles. The company also employs several in-store security guards and undercover personnel to monitor the situation and prevent potential issues. Target operates 23 investigation centers and 2 forensic centers where security footage from its cameras and other methods are studied to prevent crime and protect shoppers.

How long does Target keep its camera footage?

Target has adapted its systems, including surveillance cameras, to protect its assets following a spike in theft. The company monitors its cameras in-store 24/7 through on-site security, which sends the footage to its investigation centers. Target has one of the most sophisticated loss-prevention operations in the country, with a range of visual, audio, and latent print technologies to deter and catch criminals.

Target retains all camera footage for around 30 days to allow it to be investigated by security if necessary. The company monitors all security cameras and camera footage from both in-store and various investigation centers located around the country. This allows Target a widespread camera monitoring system primed to apprehend criminals.

Target will keep thorough records of noted shoplifters within their systems, including video recordings, fingerprints, facial IDs, and even camera footage of the crimes being committed in Target. Target’s camera technology is so sophisticated it can track potential criminals from store to store, identifying features such as clothing patterns and hairstyles of suspects.

Target also monitors its camera systems to obtain identification from facial recognition software. This helps the company build a profile of potential criminals to prosecute for theft.

Frequently asked questions