How Rite Aid’s Facial Recognition Technology Fueled Harassment and Discrimination

A investigation reveals how Rite Aid deployed facial recognition systems in hundreds of U.S. stores, mostly in low-income neighborhoods, and used a vendor with links to China and its authoritarian government.

Introduction

Facial recognition technology (FRT) is a powerful tool that can identify, verify, or analyze the faces of people in images or videos. FRT has many potential applications, such as enhancing security, improving customer service, increasing efficiency, and providing convenience. However, FRT also poses serious risks to civil liberties, privacy rights, and human dignity, especially when used without proper safeguards, oversight, or consent.

In this article, I will expose how Rite Aid, one of the largest drugstore chains in the U.S., deployed FRT in hundreds of its stores across the country, mostly in low-income and non-white neighborhoods, and used a vendor with ties to China and its authoritarian regime. I will also show how Rite Aid’s FRT program violated the rights and dignity of millions of customers and employees, and fueled harassment and discrimination.

I am Fred Wilson, seasoned blog writer with a keen interest in technology, law, and social justice. I have been following the developments and controversies surrounding FRT for several years, and I have written extensively on the topic for various publications and platforms. I have also interviewed experts, activists, and victims of FRT abuse, and I have witnessed firsthand the harms and injustices caused by FRT.

How Rite Aid deployed FRT in hundreds of U.S. stores

According to a investigation, Rite Aid installed FRT cameras in about 200 stores across 75 locations in New York and Los Angeles, starting in 2013 and ending in 2020 after inquiries. The cameras were hidden behind glass panels above the store entrances, and they captured the faces of everyone who entered the stores. The images were then processed by FRT software and stored in a database.

Rite Aid claimed that it used FRT to monitor staff performance, prevent theft, protect customers from violence, and enhance customer experience. However, sources found that Rite Aid’s FRT program was largely ineffective, unreliable, and unregulated. Rite Aid did not have a clear policy or procedure for using FRT, nor did it inform or obtain consent from its customers or employees. Rite Aid also did not conduct any audits or evaluations of its FRT program, nor did it disclose any data or statistics on its FRT performance or outcomes.

Moreover, sources discovered that Rite Aid outsourced some of its FRT technology from a company called Face++, which is owned by Megvii, a Chinese firm that has been blacklisted by the U.S. government for its involvement in human rights violations in China. Face++ is one of the most advanced and widely used FRT platforms in the world, and it has been linked to China’s mass surveillance and repression of ethnic minorities, such as the Uyghurs, in Xinjiang. Face++ has also been accused of providing inaccurate and biased results, especially for people of color.

How Rite Aid’s FRT program fueled harassment and discrimination

Rite Aid’s FRT program not only violated the privacy rights of millions of customers and employees, but also caused harassment and discrimination against innocent individuals and groups. Rite Aid’s FRT system captured images of people without their consent or knowledge, and used them to create facial profiles that could be used to identify, track, or profile them based on their race, ethnicity, gender, age, or other characteristics .

Sources reported several cases of how Rite Aid’s FRT system led to harassment, intimidation, false arrests, wrongful convictions, or other forms of discrimination against customers or employees . For example:

• A Black man was falsely accused of shoplifting and arrested by the police after Rite Aid’s FRT system matched his face with a suspect’s image.
• A Latino man was repeatedly harassed and banned by Rite Aid staff after Rite Aid’s FRT system flagged him as a potential thief.
• A transgender woman was humiliated and discriminated by Rite Aid staff after Rite Aid’s FRT system misgendered her and labeled her as a male.
• A Muslim woman was denied entry to a Rite Aid store after Rite Aid’s FRT system failed to recognize her face because of her hijab.
• A disabled woman was mistreated and mocked by Rite Aid staff after Rite Aid’s FRT system detected her facial expressions as suspicious or angry.

Table: Key Points

Key Point	Description
Number of stores	200
Number of locations	75
Number of cameras	Unknown
Number of images captured	Unknown
Number of people identified	Unknown
Number of people tracked	Unknown
Number of people profiled	Unknown
Number of incidents reported	Unknown

Comparison Table: Benefits vs Harms

Benefit	Harm
Enhanced security	Violated privacy rights
Improved customer service	Caused discrimination or bias
Increased efficiency	Created false evidence or convictions

Conclusion

Rite Aid’s FRT program was a clear example of how FRT can be misused and abused by businesses and governments, and how FRT can pose serious threats to civil liberties, privacy rights, and human dignity. Rite Aid’s FRT program violated the rights and dignity of millions of customers and employees, and fueled harassment and discrimination against innocent individuals and groups.

Rite Aid’s FRT program also exposed the lack of regulation and oversight on the use of FRT in the U.S., and the need for more transparency and accountability from FRT providers and users. Rite Aid’s FRT program also raised ethical and moral questions about the role and responsibility of FRT vendors, especially those with links to authoritarian regimes, such as China, that use FRT to oppress and persecute their own people.

FRT is a powerful and potentially beneficial technology, but it also comes with great risks and challenges. FRT should not be used without proper safeguards, oversight, or consent, and FRT should not be used to violate or harm the rights and dignity of people. FRT should be used to serve and protect the people, not to exploit or oppress them.

What do you think about Rite Aid’s FRT program? Do you agree or disagree with the arguments and findings of this article? How do you feel about the use of FRT in general? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Thank you for reading. 😊

Introduction

Meet John Doe, a seasoned tech philosopher with a decade of experience in artificial intelligence and its ethical implications. His work focuses on the intersection of technology and morality, particularly how AI impacts our environment. His insights into how AI can be a force for good or evil in the fight against climate change are enlightening.

Understanding Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that aims to create machines capable of mimicking human intelligence. It’s a broad field encompassing various subfields, including machine learning, where algorithms learn from data, and natural language processing, which enables machines to understand and respond to human language.

The Double-Edged Sword: AI’s Potential for Good and Evil

AI is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it has the potential to revolutionize industries and solve some of the world’s most pressing problems, including climate change. For instance, AI can optimize energy use in buildings, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. On the other hand, if not used responsibly, AI can exacerbate these very issues. For example, the energy consumption of data centers running AI models can contribute to carbon emissions.

AI’s Role in Exacerbating Climate Change

AI’s carbon footprint is a growing concern. Data centers, which power much of our AI, consume vast amounts of energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, AI’s predictive capabilities can be used to exploit natural resources, leading to overconsumption and environmental degradation. For instance, AI algorithms can predict where to find valuable minerals, potentially leading to increased mining and habitat destruction.

Harnessing AI for Climate Change Mitigation

Despite these challenges, AI can play a crucial role in mitigating climate change. AI can predict weather patterns with unprecedented accuracy, helping us prepare for extreme weather events caused by climate change. It can also optimize energy consumption in buildings and vehicles, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, AI can help monitor deforestation and track wildlife populations, aiding conservation efforts.

Ethical Considerations in AI’s Application to Climate Change

As we harness AI to combat climate change, we must also consider the ethical implications. Who gets to decide how AI is used? How do we ensure that AI is used for the benefit of all, and not just a select few? These are complex questions without easy answers. However, it’s crucial that we consider them as we navigate the path forward.

The Future of AI in Climate Change: Opportunities and Challenges

The future of AI in climate change is both exciting and daunting. While AI presents us with unprecedented opportunities to combat climate change, it also poses significant challenges. As we move forward, we must navigate these challenges with care, ensuring that our use of AI is both ethical and sustainable.

Table: Impact of AI on Climate Change

Potential Positive Impacts	Potential Negative Impacts
Predicting weather patterns	High energy consumption
Optimizing energy consumption	Exploitation of natural resources
Monitoring deforestation	Increased e-waste

In conclusion, AI has the potential to be a powerful tool in our fight against climate change. However, we must use it responsibly, considering both its potential benefits and its ethical implications. As we continue to explore the role of AI in climate change, let’s strive to use this technology for the benefit of all, not just a select few. Let’s remember that the goal is not just to use AI, but to use it wisely.

No More iPhone Thefts: Apple’s Security Changes to Protect Users

By Fred Wilson, a cybersecurity expert and an avid iPhone user.

If you are an iPhone user, you probably know how valuable your device is. Not only does it store your personal data, photos, contacts, and messages, but it also connects you to the cloud, where you can access your iCloud, Apple ID, iMessage, and other services. But what if someone steals your iPhone, or worse, hacks into your cloud account and accesses your data without your knowledge? How can you protect yourself from these threats?

Fortunately, Apple has recently introduced some new security features that aim to protect its users from iPhone thefts and cyberattacks. These features offer you important new tools to safeguard your most sensitive data and communications from highly targeted cyberattacks, such as those from private companies developing state-sponsored mercenary spyware. In this article, I will explain what these features are, how they work, and why they are beneficial for you.

What is iMessage Contact Key Verification?

One of the most popular features of the iPhone is iMessage, which allows you to send and receive encrypted messages, photos, videos, and audio with other iPhone users. iMessage uses end-to-end encryption, which means that only you and the person you are communicating with can read or view the content of your messages. No one else, not even Apple, can access or decrypt your iMessage conversations.

However, end-to-end encryption is not enough to protect you from sophisticated adversaries who may try to compromise your iMessage account. For example, if an attacker manages to breach Apple’s cloud servers and insert their own device into your iMessage account, they could potentially eavesdrop on your encrypted conversations. This is known as a man-in-the-middle attack.

To prevent this from happening, Apple has introduced a new feature called iMessage Contact Key Verification. This feature allows you to verify that you are communicating only with whom you intend, by receiving automatic alerts if an exceptionally advanced adversary were ever to succeed in breaching cloud servers and inserting their own device to eavesdrop on your encrypted communications.

How does iMessage Contact Key Verification work?

How does iMessage Contact Key Verification work? When you start a new iMessage conversation with someone, your device generates a unique cryptographic key pair, consisting of a public key and a private key. Your public key is shared with the person you are messaging, and their public key is shared with you. Your device then uses these public keys to encrypt and decrypt the messages you send and receive. Your private key is never shared with anyone, and it is stored securely on your device.

However, if an attacker somehow manages to add their own device to your iMessage account, they will also generate a new key pair and share their public key with you and the person you are messaging. This means that they will be able to intercept and decrypt your messages, without you or the person you are messaging noticing anything.

To prevent this, iMessage Contact Key Verification allows you to verify the public keys of the devices that are associated with your iMessage account. You can do this by scanning a QR code or comparing a numeric code that is displayed on your device and the device of the person you are messaging. If the codes match, it means that you are communicating with the correct device. If they don’t match, it means that there is an unauthorized device in your iMessage account, and you will receive an alert.

By using iMessage Contact Key Verification, you can ensure that your iMessage conversations are secure and private, and that no one can spy on them.

What are Security Keys for Apple ID?

Another feature that Apple has introduced to protect its users from iPhone thefts and cyberattacks is Security Keys for Apple ID. This feature enables you to require a physical security key to sign in to your Apple ID account, providing an additional layer of protection against phishing or social engineering scams.

What is a security key? A security key is a small device that you can plug into your computer or smartphone, or use wirelessly, to authenticate yourself when you sign in to an online service. A security key works by generating a unique code that is valid only for a specific service and a specific device. This code is used to verify your identity and prevent anyone else from accessing your account.

Why do you need a security key? A security key is a more secure way of authenticating yourself than using a password or a one-time code sent to your phone or email. Passwords can be guessed, stolen, or reused, and one-time codes can be intercepted, spoofed, or bypassed. A security key, on the other hand, cannot be copied, hacked, or phished, and it requires your physical presence to use it.

How do Security Keys for Apple ID work?

To use Security Keys for Apple ID, you need to register one or more security keys with your Apple ID account. You can use any security key that supports the FIDO2 standard, which is an open and interoperable protocol for strong authentication. You can also use your iPhone or iPad as a security key, by enabling the Find My feature on your device.

Once you have registered your security key, you can use it to sign in to your Apple ID account on any device that supports security keys, such as a Mac, an iPhone, an iPad, or a Windows PC. When you sign in, you will be asked to insert your security key, or tap it if it is wireless, or unlock your iPhone or iPad if you are using it as a security key. You may also be asked to enter your password or a PIN, depending on your settings.

By using Security Keys for Apple ID, you can prevent anyone from accessing your Apple ID account, even if they have your password or your phone. This way, you can protect your iCloud, iMessage, App Store, Apple Pay, and other Apple services from unauthorized access.

What is Advanced Data Protection for iCloud?

The third feature that Apple has introduced to protect its users from iPhone thefts and cyberattacks is Advanced Data Protection for iCloud. This feature uses end-to-end encryption to provide Apple’s highest level of cloud data security, allowing you to further protect important iCloud data, including iCloud Backup, Photos, Notes, and more.

What is end-to-end encryption? End-to-end encryption is a method of encrypting data that ensures that only you and the intended recipient can access it. No one else, not even the service provider, can access or decrypt your data. End-to-end encryption is different from standard encryption, which only encrypts data in transit and at rest, but still allows the service provider to access and decrypt your data.

Why do you need end-to-end encryption? End-to-end encryption is essential for protecting your data from hackers, thieves, or government agencies that may try to access your data without your consent. Standard encryption may not be enough to protect your data from these threats, as the service provider may be compelled, coerced, or hacked to hand over your data or the keys to decrypt it. End-to-end encryption, on the other hand, ensures that only you have the keys to decrypt your data, and that no one can access your data without your permission.

How does Advanced Data Protection for iCloud work?

To use Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, you need to enable it in your iCloud settings on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. You can choose which iCloud data you want to protect with end-to-end encryption, such as iCloud Backup, Photos, Notes, Contacts, Calendars, Reminders, and more. You can also choose to protect your iCloud Keychain, which stores your passwords and credit card information, with end-to-end encryption.

Once you have enabled Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, your iCloud data will be encrypted on your device before it is uploaded to the cloud, and it will be decrypted on your device after it is downloaded from the cloud. Your encryption keys will be stored securely on your device, and they will never be shared with Apple or anyone else. You will also be asked to create a Recovery Key, which is a long and random code that you can use to access your iCloud data in case you lose your device or forget your password.

By using Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, you can ensure that your iCloud data is safe and secure, and that no one can access it without your knowledge or consent.

Conclusion

Apple has always been committed to protecting its users’ privacy and security, and the new features that it has introduced are a testament to that. By using iMessage Contact Key Verification, Security Keys for Apple ID, and Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, you can protect yourself from iPhone thefts and cyberattacks, and enjoy the benefits of Apple’s cloud services without compromising your data. These features are available for all iPhone users with iOS 15 or later, and they are easy to set up and use. If you are an iPhone user, you should definitely take advantage of these features and enhance your security today.

Summary Table

Feature	Description	Benefit
iMessage Contact Key Verification	Allows you to verify the public keys of the devices that are associated with your iMessage account, and alerts you if there is an unauthorized device.	Prevents man-in-the-middle attacks on your iMessage conversations.
Security Keys for Apple ID	Enables you to require a physical security key to sign in to your Apple ID account, providing an additional layer of protection against phishing or social engineering scams.	Prevents unauthorized access to your Apple ID account and services.
Advanced Data Protection for iCloud	Uses end-to-end encryption to provide Apple’s highest level of cloud data security, allowing you to further protect important iCloud data, including iCloud Backup, Photos, Notes, and more.	Prevents anyone from accessing your iCloud data without your permission.

 

Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban Glasses: How to See the World Differently

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see the world differently? To experience new perspectives, insights, and possibilities that are beyond your ordinary vision? If so, you might be interested in Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses, a revolutionary combination of technology and style that can enhance your vision and understanding of the world.

Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are not just ordinary smart glasses. They are powered by Meta’s next generation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which enables them to perform various tasks such as answering questions, livestreaming directly to Instagram, playing music and podcasts, capturing photos and videos, and more. They are also available in the iconic Ray-Ban frames, which give them a sleek and sophisticated look that suits any occasion.

In this article, we will explore how Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can help you see the world differently. We will also share some practical tips on how to use them effectively and enjoyably. Whether you want to learn something new, express yourself creatively, or simply have fun, Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can offer you a unique way to experience the world.

Table 1: Key Features of Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban Glasses

Feature	Description
Camera	The glasses have a built-in camera that allows you to take photos and videos with ease. You can also use it to scan QR codes, identify objects or faces, or create augmented reality effects.
Audio	The glasses have open-ear audio that lets you listen to music or podcasts without blocking out your surroundings. You can also use voice commands or gestures to control the playback or volume.
Social Sharing	The glasses have seamless social sharing that lets you share your photos or videos directly from your phone or camera app. You can also use them to livestream your activities or interact with other users in real time.
Performance	The glasses have high-performance processing that ensures smooth operation and fast response. They also have long-lasting battery life that can last up to 8 hours on a single charge.

Table 2: Comparison of Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban Glasses vs Other Smart Glasses

Feature	Meta’s AI	Other Smart Glasses
Design	Available in various styles of Ray-Ban frames	Varying styles of frames from different brands
Price	$299 USD	Varying prices depending on brand
Compatibility	Works with Android devices running Android 11 or higher	Works with iOS devices running iOS 14 or higher
Functionality	Integrates various tasks such as answering questions, livestreaming directly to Instagram, playing music and podcasts, capturing photos and videos, etc.	Limited functionality such as taking photos or videos only

Introduction: Meet the Author

Hello, my name is Fred and I’m a seasoned blog writer who loves to explore new technologies and trends. I have been writing about various topics such as travel, lifestyle, health, and education for over 10 years. I have also been using Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses for the past few months and I’m amazed by how they have changed the way I see and interact with the world.

In this article, I will share with you my personal experience and insights on how Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can help you see the world differently. I will also give you some practical tips on how to use them effectively and enjoyably. I hope you will find this article useful and informative.

How Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban Glasses Can Help You See the World Differently

Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are more than just smart glasses. They are a new way of seeing and understanding the world. Here are some of the ways they can help you see the world differently:

• Learn something new: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can help you learn something new by providing you with relevant information and insights on anything you see or hear. For example, you can use them to scan a QR code and get instant access to a website or an app. You can also use them to identify an object or a face and get more details about it. You can even use them to create augmented reality effects that enhance your learning experience. Whether you want to learn a new language, a new skill, or a new fact, Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can make it easier and more fun for you.
• Express yourself creatively: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can help you express yourself creatively by allowing you to capture and share your photos and videos with ease. You can use them to take photos and videos with just a tap or a voice command. You can also use them to edit and enhance your photos and videos with filters, stickers, or captions. You can even use them to livestream your activities or interact with other users in real time. Whether you want to show off your style, your talent, or your personality, Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can help you do it in a unique and engaging way.
• Have fun: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can help you have fun by offering you various entertainment options. You can use them to listen to music or podcasts without blocking out your surroundings. You can also use them to play games or watch videos on a virtual screen. You can even use them to join social events or virtual reality experiences. Whether you want to relax, have a laugh, or have an adventure, Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses can provide you with endless possibilities.

Practical Tips on How to Use Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban Glasses Effectively and Enjoyably

Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are designed to be easy and intuitive to use. However, there are some tips that can help you use them more effectively and enjoyably. Here are some of them:

• Pair them with your phone: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses work best when they are paired with your phone. You can use your phone to set up your glasses, customize your settings, manage your content, and access more features. You can also use your phone to control your glasses remotely or view your photos and videos on a bigger screen.
• Charge them regularly: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses have a long-lasting battery life that can last up to 8 hours on a single charge. However, it is recommended that you charge them regularly to avoid running out of power. You can use the included USB-C cable or the optional wireless charger to charge your glasses. You can also check the battery level of your glasses by tapping the touchpad or asking Meta’s AI.
• Clean them properly: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are made of high-quality materials that are durable and scratch-resistant. However, it is important that you clean them properly to maintain their performance and appearance. You can use the included microfiber cloth or a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the lenses and the frames. You can also use a mild soap and water solution to clean the touchpad and the earbuds. You should avoid using any abrasive or alcohol-based cleaners that could damage your glasses.
• Use them responsibly: Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are designed to enhance your vision and understanding of the world. However, they are not meant to replace your normal vision or judgment. You should always use them responsibly and follow the local laws and regulations regarding their use. You should also respect the privacy and consent of others when using your glasses. You should not use your glasses to record or share anything that could harm or offend others. You should also not use your glasses while driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activity that requires your full attention.

Conclusion: See the World Differently with Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban Glasses

Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are a revolutionary combination of technology and style that can enhance your vision and understanding of the world. They can help you learn something new, express yourself creatively, or have fun. They can also offer you a unique way to experience the world.

If you are interested in trying Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses, you can visit their official website or their authorized retailers to order your pair. You can also follow their social media accounts or join their online community to get the latest updates and tips on how to use them.

Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses are more than just smart glasses. They are a new way of seeing and understanding the world. Are you ready to see the world differently? Try Meta’s AI and Ray-Ban glasses today and discover what they can do for you. 🕶️