Walmart Uses AI-Powered Cameras to Prevent Store Theft

Retail giant Walmart has invested in AI-powered surveillance cameras to prevent theft and ensure proper scanning of products during checkout. Dubbed as Missed Scan Detection, Walmart’s new security program is currently being implemented in over 1,000 stores across the United States. The program incorporates an Artificial Intelligence (AI) software in surveillance cameras installed over manned and self-checkout counters. The program can automatically detect unscanned items and promptly notify a Walmart staff of such cases. The alert allows the staff to quickly intervene and check theft cases or instances of human error. One of the companies that provide Walmart with the state-of-the-art technology is Everseen. According to Alan O'Herlihy /oʊ ˈhɜr lə hi/, Everseen’s CEO, the program can capture high-definition images and operate around the clock. In addition, the program detects strange customers’ behavior and other threats. It also addresses human errors, such as customers forgetting items in the cart or cashiers being distracted and unable to scan items. This minimizes shrinkage, a term that retailers use for revenue losses caused by theft, fraud, and scanning errors. The new surveillance program is part of Walmart’s continuous efforts to improve its stores’ security. A Walmart spokesperson said that the company has invested more than $500 million in manpower and innovations over the last few years to ensure customer safety. Walmart also hopes to further reduce shrinkage in all its stores. According to an analyst’s estimate, shrinkage cost the company over $4 billion last year. Since its implementation, the new security program has successfully lowered the shrink rate at Walmart stores.