Smart glasses prompt privacy warning for islanders

People across Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man are being urged to consider the privacy implications of using smart glasses capable of recording audio and video.

The islands' data protection authorities have issued a joint warning over the discreet technology, saying it can potentially capture conversations and personal information without those affected being aware.

Smart glasses are becoming increasingly common in workplaces and businesses, according to officials.

Jersey Information Commissioner Paul Vane acknowledged that the technology could bring benefits, but said those advantages needed to be balanced against "considerable privacy risks".

Users have been advised to be "mindful and respectful" when using recording features and to consider whether it is appropriate to film or record in particular situations.

Warning over filming without consent

Mr Vane said people who are recorded should be able to exercise their statutory rights under data protection legislation.

He also said they should feel empowered to challenge anyone who had not been transparent about their use of smart glasses.

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

However, she warned that the features which make smart glasses useful could also make them easier to misuse.

"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," she said.

Dr Delaney-Bhattacharya said recording someone could take little more than a glance, with footage potentially ending up in places far beyond the islands.

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

The three data protection authorities are encouraging users to think carefully before recording or sharing footage.

"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," Dr Delaney-Bhattacharya said.