Smart glasses bring 'considerable privacy risks'

Islanders are being warned about the "considerable privacy risks" in recording using smart glasses.

The Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey's data protection authorities have teamed up to warn that the discreet and wearable technology could capture conversations and personal information without people knowing.

Officials said smart glasses were "increasingly" being used, including in workplaces and businesses. Paul Vane, Jersey Information Commissioner, said there were "benefits" to the technology, but warned "there are also considerable privacy risks".

The authorities have urged users to be "mindful and respectful" and consider when recording is appropriate.

Vane said people affected must feel able to exercise their statutory rights under data protection laws.

"And feel empowered to challenge users who have not been transparent about the use of the technology," Vane added.

Dr Alexandra Delaney-Bhattacharya, Isle of Man Information Commissioner, said the technology could "open up the world" for people with "disabilities especially".

"But the same features that make them useful also make them easy to misuse," she said.

"We know from experience that women and girls are disproportionately the ones filmed without consent, whether by a stranger on the street or someone at a party.

"It takes only a glance to record someone, and that footage can end up anywhere including with a company beyond our shores.

"Our message is simple: think before you share, and ask yourself how you'd feel, or how a woman in your life would feel, if it were her in that footage."

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