Retaillance: A conceptual framework and review of surveillance in retail (2021)
This paper coins the term "Retaillance" and provides a comprehensive look at how both physical and online stores systematically collect personal and shopping data.
For those interested in the how , this paper on SSRN details the use of machine learning, biometric security (facial recognition), and transaction monitoring used to flag "suspicious" activities. Summary of Common Surveillance Methods Tracking Pixels Monitor page viewing and cart abandonment. Digital Receipts Link your phone/email to in-store cash transactions. YouTube Research Biometrics Facial recognition and fingerprinting for identity. GSCARR Behavioral AI Analyze historical patterns to predict fraud or intent.
This recent report from F-Secure explains how stores use tracking pixels and behavioral monitoring (like mouse movements) to adjust prices based on your "willingness to pay".
Surveillance Pricing Is Quietly Raising the Cost of Online Shopping (2025)