Hidden cameras to be removed from ad panels
JCDecaux, owner and operator of the ad panels found in public spaces across the country is coming under fire for hiding cameras inside them to track reactions to ads
Privacy concerns
The camera-equipped panels were intended to count customer numbers at certain sites like shopping centres and track their reactions to the ads on the panels. The company stressed that the system retained only data and that images were not recorded.
The technology, however, had trouble recording reactions and numbers when crowds grew too large, and distinguishing between male and female shoppers was also problematic. “We want to provide advertisers with reliable data, so we have decided to let this system go,” a JCDecaux spokesperson for said. “The cameras have been removed from a number of locations already, and there remain 10 or so to be removed.”
According to De Morgen newspaper, JCDecaux has not revealed when the cameras were placed. Local privacy experts have pointed out that it is illegal to film people in public spaces for commercial purposes.
Privacy state secretary Philippe De Backer has asked the Privacy Commission to look into the matter.
Photo: JCDecaux
