Norway Considers Ban on 'Pervert Glasses' That Record Without Consent
Norwegian authorities are contemplating a ban on smart glasses equipped with cameras that can photograph individuals without their permission. Digital Minister Karianne Tung expressed concern particularly about Meta's intention to integrate AI facial recognition technology into these devices, which would enable the identification of individuals. Tung emphasized the importance of preventing such tools from being used for surveillance in public areas. She plans to engage with privacy specialists and encourages companies to formulate ethical standards. Other European nations, including France and Germany, are also investigating comparable regulations amid rising privacy concerns surrounding these gadgets.
Key facts
- Norway is considering banning camera-equipped smart glasses that can record people without consent.
- Digital minister Karianne Tung is concerned about Meta's plans for AI-powered facial recognition.
- Tung plans to consult experts and wants private companies to develop privacy policies.
- Meta reportedly abandoned its 'Name Tag' facial recognition feature in June after ACLU criticism.
- France, Germany, and the Netherlands have considered banning Meta's smart glasses.
- Norwegian Consumer Council's Finn Lützow-Holm Myrstad says 'the potential for abuse is enormous.'
- The glasses are dubbed 'pervert glasses' due to misuse by some owners.
- Meta claims it bricked thousands of tampered pairs to prevent disabling the recording LED.
Entities
Institutions
- Meta
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- Norwegian Consumer Council
- AFP
- PetaPixel
Locations
- Norway
- France
- Germany
- Netherlands