Tesco Ireland has responded after a customer described the camera feature on some self-service checkouts as "creepy".
Customers are able to see themselves on camera while paying for their items in the top right corner of the screen in some Irish stores.
Tesco has explained the feature after a customer asked online: "What's with the creepy new checkout filming @TescoIrl?"
The supermarket giant said that the feature was for the safety of both customers and staff, the Irish Mirror reports.
Tesco explained: "Hi there, thanks for contacting us. The screens at the checkouts are there for the health and safety of both our customers and colleagues.
"The screens allow better visibility for customers while using the checkouts."
Tesco confirmed they are trialling these new cameras in six shops nationwide.
A Tesco spokesperson said: "In six of our stores we are currently trialling front-facing cameras on self-service checkouts.
"The purpose of these cameras is to provide an additional security measure for customers when checking out. This trial is operating in line with GDPR requirements.”
These CCTV type cameras were rolled out across the UK in recent years to "crack down on shoplifting".
Faces of customers in select stores appeared on screens above each checkout rather than in the corners as is the case here.
