Chicago Cubs hit with class action lawsuit for collecting fans’ facial recognition data without consent
The Chicago Cubs are facing a class action lawsuit alleging unlawful collection of fans’ biometric data, specifically facial recognition data, without consent.Summary
A class action lawsuit has been filed against the Chicago Cubs, Blue Star Security, and Protos Security, alleging the unlawful collection and use of fans’ biometric data at Wrigley Field. Plaintiff Gabriel Berta claims the Cubs utilized facial recognition technology to gather biometric identifiers without obtaining informed written consent, violating the Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The lawsuit asserts that the Cubs contracted with security firms to collect facial recognition templates using proprietary software, and then used this data to identify fans. Berta argues the team failed to inform fans about the data collection, provide data retention policies, or obtain necessary consent. The suit seeks damages, restitution, and injunctive relief for a class of affected individuals, citing violations of BIPA, the Illinois Consumer Fraud Act, and unjust enrichment. This case follows a recent $12 million settlement involving Speedway for similar BIPA violations related to employee fingerprint scanning.
(Source：Class Action Lawsuits)