LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to enforce a province-wide ban on camera-equipped glasses and other spy devices amid growing concerns over illegal surveillance.
The directive follows the provincial government’s recent decision to prohibit devices used for spying. These include glasses, pens, watches and other everyday items fitted with hidden cameras or recording equipment.
A Punjab Home Department spokesperson said authorities would take strict legal action against the illegal use, purchase and sale of spying equipment and concealed electronic devices, The News reported.
The spokesperson said the ban aims to protect citizens’ privacy and personal information, particularly the safety of women and children.
Officials have received complaints about illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail involving spying devices. The spokesperson added that the Punjab government remained committed to protecting citizens’ fundamental rights and personal privacy.
The government also warned of strict penalties for illegally using everyday items equipped with hidden cameras.
Global Concerns Over Smart Glasses
The move comes amid growing international calls to restrict so-called “pervert glasses” after secretly recorded footage of women and girls appeared online. In Britain, a petition has called for a ban on their sale.
Smart glasses allow users to take photographs, record videos, listen to music, make phone calls, translate text and interact with artificial intelligence assistants. Sales of the devices have reached millions, according to AFP.
The devices attracted further attention this summer following a marketing partnership between beauty mogul Kylie Jenner, a member of the Kardashian family, and technology giant Meta.
Concerns intensified across Europe, particularly in Britain, where media coverage focused on the potential misuse of smart glasses. Reports that Meta was developing a facial recognition feature for the devices also raised privacy concerns.
Reports of Secret Filming Raise Alarm
In August, a 17-year-old girl told British broadcaster Channel 4 News that a man had approached her and secretly recorded her and their interaction.
Authorities in other countries have also taken steps to address the issue. Norway’s capital, Oslo, banned smart glasses in schools, while France’s data protection watchdog, CNIL, urged the public to exercise “vigilance”.
Punjab’s planned crackdown adds to wider efforts to address privacy risks associated with wearable technology and devices that can record people without their knowledge.
