AI and Retail Security, New Possibilities for Safety

In accordance with technological developments and advancements that have been made with respect to artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in the past decade, many malls around the world currently employ the use of AI CCTV cameras for their surveillance. Such cameras boast numerous features such as face and license place detection, as well as people and traffic counting, among a host of others. While the use of such technological methods has historically been misused by governments, AI CCTV cameras can also be used to improve the level of security, safety, and privacy that consumers around the globe seek when going shopping in their local mall or town center.

Slip and fall detection

One major way in which artificial intelligence can be used to improve the level of security that consumers are afforded when shopping in a particular mall is by preventing slip and fall incidents. As many malls and shopping centers will inevitably deal with situations involving slippery floors or other associated obstacles that can lead to injury, artificial intelligence can be used to help identify such hazards before these incidents occur. By utilizing video analytics, mall staff can more effectively detect potential slip and fall hazards, respond to such incidents in the most efficient manner possible, and ultimately, provide necessary help as it is needed. On the other end of the spectrum, malls can also avoid the costly lawsuits and legal actions that can result from injuries that are sustained within a particular retail location.

Preventing mall and store related violence

Another way in which artificial intelligence can be used to improve a particular mall’s level of safety and security is through the prevention of mall and store-related violence. Despite the rise of COVID-19 in 2020 and the subsequent lockdowns that proceeded, 485 violent mall-related incidents were reported in 2020, a 14% increase from the previous year. These mall-related incidents led to 523 fatalities, 76% of which included customers, store associates, and security personnel. Moreover, as many violent incidents, in general, are not reported, the number of such incidents in 2020 was more than likely higher. By utilizing AI-based technologies such as anomaly behavior recognition and object detection, mall staff can more effectively identify the intruders and weapons that lead to violence within retail locations, as well as identify and address violent situations are as they happening.

Securing parking areas

As many malls within major metropolitan areas such as Paris, London, or New York City will undoubtedly feature substantial secure parking areas, artificial intelligence can also be used to improve the level of security within these areas. Whether it be in the form of a bomb threat, an automobile accident, or the destruction of property, secure parking areas present a significant level of risk for both customers and staff. Through the use of AI analysis and real-time monitoring, security officers within retail locations can mitigate the risks that can occur within secure parking areas by improving situational awareness. In improving this situational awareness, these security officers can then make the decisions needed to protect lives, physical property, and the overall safety and reputation of their respective locations.

Compliance with COVID-19 regulations

A final way in which artificial intelligence can be used to improve security within retail stores is through maintaining compliance with the various COVID-19 regulations and mandates that are present in the world today. As many cities around the world have implemented vaccine, mask, and social distancing mandates, AI can assist in ensuring that these regulations are adhered to at all times. By monitoring the number of people within a particular area, the distance between said people, and the skin temperature of these individuals, mall staff can take the proper precautions to ensure the safety of all patrons as it concerns the COVID-19 virus. Furthermore, retail locations can also ensure that they maintain compliance with all regulations and mandates within their particular region of the world.

While the task of ensuring that a retail location or mall is 100% safe at all times is all but impossible, there are new technologies that can retail security officers achieve the highest level of safety, privacy, and security possible. Artificial intelligence is one of such technologies, as AI capabilities within CCTV cameras can be used to greatly reduce the level of risk that both shoppers and employees face when frequenting a retail location. From identifying violent activities before they occur to confirming that all individuals within a store are wearing masks, the possibilities for artificial intelligence as it relates to mall security a numerous, and these possibilities will only continue to grow as AI continues to advance in the near future.