Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to strictly enforce a province-wide ban on camera-equipped glasses and other spying devices amid growing concerns over unlawful surveillance and the misuse of recording technology.
The provincial government had earlier decided to prohibit surveillance equipment disguised as everyday items, including glasses, pens and watches fitted with concealed cameras or recording devices.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said strict legal action would be taken against those involved in the illegal use, purchase or sale of such equipment.
Ban Aims to Protect Privacy
According to the spokesperson, the measure aims to protect citizens’ privacy and personal information, with particular emphasis on the safety of women and children.
Authorities have received complaints involving illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail allegedly carried out using hidden recording devices, the spokesperson said.
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The Home Department reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens’ fundamental rights and protecting their personal information.
The spokesperson warned that individuals found illegally using ordinary items equipped with concealed cameras would face strict penalties under the applicable law.
Smart Glasses Raise Global Privacy Concerns
The decision comes amid growing international concerns over the potential misuse of smart glasses to record women and girls without their knowledge or consent.
Smart glasses can offer a range of features, including photography, video recording, music playback, phone calls, text translation and interaction with artificial intelligence assistants.
Privacy concerns have intensified in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, where media reports have highlighted the alleged use of smart glasses to secretly record people.
Reports that Meta was developing a facial-recognition feature for its smart glasses have also fuelled concerns about consent, personal privacy and the potential identification of individuals without their knowledge.
The Punjab government’s move underscores the growing challenge of regulating emerging recording technologies while protecting citizens from unlawful surveillance and the misuse of personal information.
