https://www.axios.com/2023/12/20/rite-aid-facial-recognition-ai-ban-ftc-five-years-settlement

Oh wowwwwwwww… This is f*cked up.

Title: The Unfortunate Consequences of Rite-Aid’s Illegal Use of Facial Recognition Technology

Introduction:
The recent revelation that Rite-Aid, a popular retail chain, utilized an illegal facial recognition program in its stores has sparked widespread concern and condemnation. The consequences of this unethical practice were particularly detrimental to individuals from marginalized communities who were wrongfully accused of crimes and subjected to harassment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the unlawful actions undertaken by Rite-Aid, highlighting the reasons why racial profiling is wrong and emphasizing the illegal nature of acting as their own police force.

Body:

1. Unjust Implications of Racial Profiling:
   Racial profiling, manifested in Rite-Aid’s facial recognition program, perpetuates bias and discrimination. The technology’s inherent flaws and biases disproportionately affected people of color, leading to false accusations and wrongful scrutiny. Such profiling reinforces harmful stereotypes, erodes trust in the justice system, and perpetuates systemic racism. It is an affront to the principles of equality and fairness that should underpin our society.
2. Violation of Privacy and Civil Liberties:
   By employing their facial recognition system without proper consent and oversight, Rite-Aid infringed upon the privacy rights of its customers. The indiscriminate collection and use of biometric data without explicit authorization raise serious concerns about the erosion of personal freedoms. Engaging in surveillance activities beyond the scope of legitimate security measures undermines the fundamental rights of individuals and breaches the social contract between businesses and customers.
3. Lack of Legal Authority:
   Acting as their own police force, Rite-Aid overstepped legal boundaries. Licensed security personnel should possess adequate training and be subject to legal frameworks that ensure accountability, transparency, and appropriate decision-making processes. The unauthorized use of facial recognition technology adds an additional layer of concern, as it was deployed without any regulatory approval or compliance with guidelines governing its responsible use.
4. The Harrowing Impact on Communities:
   The aftermath of Rite-Aid’s actions left a profound impact on the individuals wrongly targeted. Innocent people endured unwarranted suspicion, humiliation, and psychological distress. Such experiences can have long-lasting effects on their lives, exacerbating existing societal divisions and perpetuating a culture of fear and discrimination. It is crucial to recognize the harm caused by these practices and work towards systemic reform to prevent future injustices.

Conclusion:

The case of Rite-Aid’s illegal use of facial recognition technology serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with racial profiling and the abuse of surveillance techniques. This incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive regulation and oversight to ensure that emerging technologies are used responsibly and ethically. It is incumbent upon legislators, organizations, and society as a whole to condemn such actions, advocate for justice, and actively promote equitable practices that uphold the principles of equality and respect for all individuals, regardless of their race or ethnicity.