A Berlin-based non-profit has filed a criminal complaint against Meta's smart glasses, alleging they breach Germany's privacy rules by allowing covert filming. The complaint targets Meta, its eyewear partners, and retailers, citing violations of the Telecommunications, Digital Services and Data Protection Act.
The complaint highlights growing concerns over the privacy implications of wearable technology and could lead to stricter regulations or bans on smart glasses in Germany and potentially other European countries.
A criminal complaint has been lodged in Germany against Meta's smart glasses, with a Berlin-based non-profit arguing that the devices violate strict privacy regulations and should be banned. The complaint, filed by HateAid, alleges that the sale of the glasses constitutes a criminal offense due to their capability to covertly film individuals.
The complaint specifically cites breaches of Germany’s Telecommunications, Digital Services and Data Protection Act and names Meta, its eyewear partners Ray-Ban and Oakley, and several retailers as defendants. HateAid contends that smart glasses should only be sold if they are clearly identifiable and that recording capabilities should be limited, similar to dashcams or bodycams.
Meta, however, maintains that the smart glasses were approved by Germany's regulator, BNetzA, in 2022 and were designed with advanced privacy safeguards, including an LED indicator light that activates during recording. These safeguards, Meta states, exceed those offered by smartphones. Meanwhile, Europe's privacy regulators are anticipating the finalization of a report on smart glasses this summer.