Venezuelans offer a different kind of fingerprint for controversial government policy

Venezuelans have taken to twitter to express anger over a new policy requiring citizens to scan their fingerprints when buying certain foods at grocery stores. The move, announced last week, comes as Venezuela faces shortages of basic goods stemming from price controls, black market vendors and other factors.  

President Nicolas Maduro said the system would reduce food smuggling and prevent black market vendors from buying too much of any single item. Critics, however, argue the policy treats citizens as thieves. 

Some online are using #CaptameEstaHuella (“Capture this fingerprint”) to protest the policy, which is set to be implemented in several cities by the end of November.