Closure of preliminary investigation into Coop: Use of intelligent video surveillance cameras at automatic checkouts
The FDPIC is closing its preliminary investigation into the artificial intelligence surveillance cameras used by Coop Group. A formal investigation will not be opened. Examination of the case showed that data was processed in compliance with the Data Protection Act.
Members of the media contacted the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner (FDPIC) in February 2025 with claims that Coop was using surveillance cameras equipped with artificial intelligence in self-service checkout areas at certain points of sale, notably in Lausanne. A pictogram indicated to customers that these cameras were equipped with software capable of detecting customers who did not scan all their products.
In order to establish the facts, the FDPIC immediately opened a preliminary investigation. It requested clarification from the company regarding the use of the cameras, the data being processed, the differences from conventional video surveillance, the purposes being pursued, how transparency is ensured for data subjects and compliance with legal requirements.
The explanations provided to the FDPIC during the preliminary investigation clarified the operation of these cameras and showed that they are not capable of recognising faces or analysing customers’ purchasing habits. Without going into detail about the operation of the cameras, the FDPIC concluded that the data processing carried out in this case complies with the Data Protection Act and does not present any increased risk to data subjects. The case was closed without a formal investigation.