In September 2024, the New York Mets were hit with a class action lawsuit for allegedly using facial recognition technology to scan fans at Citi Field—without consent, without notice, and for profit.
The Allegations
The 18-page complaint claims:
11 facial recognition cameras at the main fan entrance
Faces checked against a blacklist in real-time
187 surveillance cameras and 115 door/card readers
Data shared with third-party security company Genetec
Biometric data used to reduce staffing costs and charge premium prices
The Legal Violation
NYC Biometrics Law (2021): It's illegal to "sell, lease, trade, share in exchange for anything of value or otherwise profit from the transaction of biometric identifier information" without consent.
The Mets allegedly:
Collected biometrics without consent
Shared data with third parties
Profited from the arrangement
The Class Scope
Who's Affected:
All consumers who visited Citi Field since July 9, 2021
Sporting events AND concerts
Estimated 100,000+ fans
The Stadium Surveillance Trend
This isn't just the Mets:
Madison Square Garden faces similar lawsuit
Target stores sued for self-checkout facial scans
Professional sports venues becoming surveillance hubs
Protecting Yourself
If You Attended Citi Field:
Monitor the class action for updates
Document your attendance history
Consider opting out of future events
For All Stadium Visitors:
Assume you're being scanned at every venue
Wear hats and sunglasses if concerned
Support biometric privacy legislation
The Question: Should buying a hot dog require surrendering your biometric identity?