Luton Point reassures shoppers after concerns raised about new biometric camera stall
Shoppers have been reassured by Luton Point about new biometric scanning cameras that are part of a pop-up stall in the centre.
Privacy concerns had been raised about the Orb stand after a Facebook user posted a picture of the stall and said it was “giving away £20 in vouchers...if you download the app”.
One person commented: “It sells your biometrics do not do this, you’ve been warned.”
While another claimed: “The Orb takes your unique iris pattern to sell your biometrics to third party organisations. Do not sell your body for £20 people.”
But shoppers have been reassured that the stand complies with UK data protection laws – with privacy remaining a top priority for Luton Point.
The Orb stand is just outside of River Island in the shopping centre. The two cameras are part of World ID’s new UK rollout of biometric technology that confirms a person is real – not a bot – to access apps and online service.
Neither World ID nor Tools for Humanity, which created the technology, have responded to our official requests for comment. But a PR company, speaking on behalf of the businesses, said: “The Luton pop-up is part of our UK launch. World works with regulators in each country it operates in and complies with UK data protection laws.”
The shopping centre provided Tools for Humanity’s data protection registration certificate, issued by the Information Commissioner's Office.
A spokesperson for Luton Point said: “Luton Point understands that some visitors have questions about the World Orb pop-up currently operating within the centre.
“We want to reassure shoppers that participation is entirely voluntary and that Luton Point does not collect, store or have access to any biometric or personal data associated with this activity. All third-party operators are required to confirm compliance with UK law and data protection regulations as part of our approval process.”
They added: “We have reviewed the information provided by the operator and continue to engage with them to ensure that activities on site meet both regulatory requirements and the expectations of our visitors. The safety, privacy and confidence of those who shop with us remains our priority.”
Frasers Group, which owns Luton Point, declined to comment.