A woman in Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City was alarmed to learn that a camera had been installed in the women’s changing room at her local gym, sparking concerns over privacy and security.

The gym member, identified as N.D., told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper she had frequented the gym since May, regularly using its lockers, restrooms, and changing facilities.

It was only on October 29, she said, that other gym-goers informed her of the camera’s presence in the changing room.

“I was in complete shock,” she said, describing her reaction as she confirmed the camera’s location.

Positioned to face the lockers and cabinets, the device appeared to have a clear view of the area.

When D. confronted the gym management, she was told the camera had been placed there to prevent theft.

The manager reassured her that the footage is erased every 24 hours, and access to the recordings is restricted to accounting and administrative staff.

The gym's response did little to reassure D., who has since warned other members of the surveillance device in the women's changing area.

Her concerns have resonated with fellow customers, many of whom were unaware of the camera and have expressed shock upon learning they may have been under surveillance while changing.

Several patrons voiced anger that the gym had not provided any notification or posted signs indicating the camera’s presence, calling the lack of transparency a serious invasion of privacy.

According to the gym manager, identified as T.V., the camera was installed solely to protect customers' valuables.

V. explained that the measure was taken after a woman reported losing over VND100 million (US$3,953) in cash and valuables from her locker, and the gym had no way to verify what had happened.

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