Yorkdale is going to spend millions on a new surveillance system that will (potentially) deter criminals

Yorkdale,  like every other mall in the world (presumably), wants to deter criminal activity. After gun violence at the mall last year, and a posher persona with the addition of brands like Mulberry and Prada, the shopping destination is placing a higher value on security—$3.4 million to be exact. The pricey upgrade will include 360-degree camera coverage over almost 100 per cent of public space, high-resolution image capture, and a monitoring room staffed around the clock by trained security officers. High-tech cameras will even be implemented to scan license plates, which—if nothing else—may prevent some of the questionable tactics currently used by drivers to snag coveted parking spots on the weekend.

Although the project is being financed to protect Yorkdale shoppers, the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, who spoke to City News, says there’s not actually any evidence that suggests security cameras make people safer. And while the mall isn’t claiming to surpass any safety thresholds, it is (rather anticlimactically) saying that it hopes to now be, “an undesirable place for criminals.” For shoppers, it may feel more like being on The Truman Show.