Norway is taking steps to regulate smart glasses that can record people without their knowledge, and is also considering a ban on facial recognition technology. The country's consumer watchdog has urged retailers to stop selling the devices until the law is clarified.
What the 'pervert glasses' do
The glasses, which have been dubbed 'pervert glasses' in Norway, are capable of covert recording. They look like ordinary eyewear but can capture video and photos discreetly, raising serious privacy concerns. The Norwegian government is now moving to restrict their sale and use, though the exact scope of the regulation is still being worked out.
Privacy advocates have long warned about the potential for such devices to be misused. The concern isn't just about recording in public spaces; it's about the ease with which someone can film others without consent, often in situations where people expect a reasonable degree of privacy.
Consumer watchdog's call
The Norwegian consumer watchdog has taken a proactive stance, urging retailers to pull these products from their shelves immediately. The watchdog's request comes before any formal law is in place, signaling that the current legal framework is seen as insufficient to address the risks. Retailers are being asked to act voluntarily until the government clarifies the rules.
This isn't a full ban yet, but it's a strong signal. The watchdog's move puts pressure on both the industry and lawmakers to move quickly. It also gives consumers a clear warning about what these devices can do.
Facial recognition ban under consideration
In a separate but related development, Norway is considering a ban on facial recognition technology. This would be a significant step, as facial recognition is already used in some public and private settings. The proposed ban would likely cover both the technology itself and its application, though details remain sparse.
The two issues are connected. Smart glasses with cameras could be paired with facial recognition software, making covert surveillance even more invasive. By addressing both together, Norway appears to be taking a comprehensive approach to privacy protection.
What happens next
The law is still being drafted, and there's no clear timeline for when it will be finalized. In the meantime, the consumer watchdog's request to retailers stands. Whether stores comply voluntarily or wait for legal enforcement remains to be seen. The government's next steps will determine how quickly these protections take effect.
