Punjab orders crackdown on smart glasses and covert recording devices

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed provincial authorities to enforce restrictions on camera-equipped smart glasses and other concealed recording devices. The instruction follows complaints that such gadgets are being used for unauthorised surveillance, harassment and blackmail.

The planned restrictions cover ordinary-looking items fitted with hidden cameras or recording equipment, including glasses, pens and watches. Officials have indicated that legal action may be taken against people involved in the unlawful use, purchase or sale of covert surveillance equipment across the province.

The Punjab Home Department has linked the measure to the protection of privacy and personal information. Authorities have placed particular emphasis on risks faced by women and children, who may be recorded without their knowledge in public places, educational institutions, workplaces or private settings.

Enforcement will require officials to distinguish prohibited spying equipment from commonly available consumer electronics. Modern smart glasses may offer photography, video recording, audio, calling, translation and artificial-intelligence features, making them useful for legitimate purposes while also creating opportunities for covert misuse.

The direction signals a stronger regulatory response to technology that can blend into everyday clothing and accessories. Unlike conventional cameras and mobile phones, miniature recording devices may be difficult for people nearby to recognise, increasing concerns about consent and the circulation of secretly captured footage online.

Authorities have not yet publicly detailed every enforcement procedure, including how devices will be identified, what exemptions may apply or how legitimate professional use will be handled. Clear implementation rules could become important for retailers, technology users, investigators and businesses dealing in wearable electronics.

Privacy concerns surrounding smart glasses have also intensified internationally as their sales and capabilities expand. Schools and public institutions in some countries have restricted their use, while data-protection advocates have called for stronger safeguards against covert recording and facial-recognition functions.

The Punjab government says protecting fundamental rights and personal privacy is the central objective of the crackdown. The effectiveness of the measure will depend on consistent enforcement, public awareness and sufficiently precise rules that target abusive surveillance without creating uncertainty for lawful technology users.