Norway Weighs Ban on Camera-Equipped ‘Spy Glasses’

Norway is contemplating a prohibition on smart glasses and various wearable headsets that come equipped with cameras, driven by the need to address significant privacy issues associated with this controversial technology.

Karianne Tung, Norway’s digital minister, stated that the government is exploring methods to regulate the use of wearable devices featuring cameras, including products from Meta and Snap. These internet-connected devices may soon adopt facial recognition technology, raising concerns among civil liberties advocates who argue that such devices violate personal privacy. Detractors have labeled them as “pervert glasses,” resulting in considerable public backlash.

Tung highlighted a “discernible trend towards merging artificial intelligence with cameras and microphones embedded in everyday items like glasses, headphones, and hats.”

“We must establish safeguards to prevent this technology from being used for the surveillance of individuals in public spaces,” Tung emphasized, proposing that this may involve banning facial recognition of people in these environments.

Tung intends to form a committee of experts to assist the government in strengthening the protection of citizens’ privacy rights.