UK weighs smart glasses restrictions amid concerns over covert filming

The UK government is considering restrictions on smart glasses following concerns about covert filming of women, safeguarding minister Satvir Kaur told the House of Commons. Options under examination include limiting use in particular settings and sales to certain users. The report does not identify which users could face sales restrictions or provide a timetable.

Liberal Democrat MP Anna Sabine, who led the debate, said women had reported discovering viral videos of themselves after nights out, recorded without their knowledge or consent. Kaur said recording with the glasses could already breach laws in places such as courts. She added that NHS England and the Department for Education were examining wearable technology in certain settings.

The debate brings privacy concerns alongside accessibility benefits. Kaur said smart glasses can help visually impaired people navigate their surroundings, while Sabine questioned their implications for consent in public spaces. Healthcare and education already have safeguarding or professional policies relevant to digital recording, according to the minister.