Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to enforce restrictions on smart glasses and other concealed surveillance devices across the province. The decision follows growing concerns about privacy violations, illegal recording, harassment and blackmail involving gadgets with hidden cameras.
The provincial government recently decided to prohibit devices designed for covert surveillance, including camera-equipped glasses, pens, watches and other electronic gadgets. Consequently, authorities have been instructed to take strict action against the illegal use, purchase and sale of such equipment.
According to the Punjab Home Department, violators will face legal consequences under the relevant laws. The government aims to protect citizens’ privacy and personal information, particularly that of women and children.
Why Has Punjab Ordered a Ban on Spy Devices?
The Punjab government’s decision follows complaints about the misuse of concealed recording equipment for unauthorised surveillance. Such devices can capture images and videos without the knowledge or consent of the people being recorded.
Moreover, authorities have raised concerns about the potential use of secretly recorded footage for harassment and blackmail. The government says the restrictions aim to safeguard fundamental rights and prevent the misuse of everyday electronic gadgets.
The Home Department has warned that strict legal action will target the illegal use of items equipped with hidden cameras. The proposed enforcement measures also cover the purchase and sale of prohibited surveillance equipment.
However, the announcement focuses on devices used for spying and concealed recording. It does not establish that every smart-glasses model or device with a camera is automatically prohibited, regardless of its use or applicable legal status.
Smart Glasses Face Growing Privacy Concerns Worldwide
Punjab’s move comes amid international concerns about smart glasses and their potential misuse for covert filming. These wearable devices offer several functions, including photography, video recording, music playback, phone calls, text translation and interaction with artificial intelligence assistants.
Their growing popularity has also intensified debates about consent and privacy in public spaces. In particular, concerns have emerged over people recording women and girls without their knowledge.
The devices attracted renewed attention following a marketing partnership between beauty entrepreneur Kylie Jenner and technology company Meta. At the same time, reports about a possible facial recognition feature for smart glasses have added to privacy concerns.
Critics fear that such technology could make it easier to identify or record people without their consent. Consequently, calls for stronger safeguards have gained momentum in several countries.
Reports of Secret Filming Raise Alarm
In Britain, concerns about smart glasses intensified after secretly recorded footage of women and girls appeared online. The devices have faced criticism under the label “pervert glasses”, reflecting fears about their use for non-consensual recording.
One reported incident involved a 17-year-old girl who said a man had approached her and secretly recorded their interaction. The case highlighted concerns about the potential misuse of wearable recording technology.
Meanwhile, Oslo in Norway banned smart glasses in schools. France’s data protection authority, CNIL, also urged “vigilance” over the privacy risks associated with such devices.
These developments have strengthened calls for safeguards against covert surveillance and the unauthorised sharing of recorded footage.
What the Ban Means for Privacy in Punjab
Maryam Nawaz’s directive places the enforcement of Punjab’s restrictions on concealed surveillance devices in focus. Authorities are expected to act against the illegal use, purchase and sale of equipment covered by the government’s decision.
The measures particularly emphasise protecting women, children and other citizens from unauthorised recording, harassment and blackmail. Nevertheless, the precise application of the restrictions will depend on the relevant legal provisions and enforcement rules.
As concerns about wearable technology continue to grow internationally, Punjab’s decision highlights the challenge of balancing technological use with personal privacy and consent.
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