An investigation by consumer advocacy group Choice has revealed major Aussie retailers Kmart, Bunnings and The Good Guys are using facial recognition technology on customers, including children, without their knowledge. Bunnings said they capture images of people’s faces that are stored in a database for “theft and anti-social” purposes. It’s also used by retailers for targeted advertising purposes. But Choice says it’s “completely inappropriate and unnecessary” and that discreet signs outside stores and online privacy policies are “not nearly enough” to adequately inform customers. Their investigation found that 76% weren’t aware their biometric data was being tracked and used by the retailers. Choice wants the companies to be investigated for potential breaches of the Privacy Act and has called for clear regulations to protect consumers.