Consumentenbond calls for ban on Meta camera glasses

The Dutch consumer organization Consumentenbond is calling for a ban on Meta’s Ray-Ban camera glasses, citing significant privacy risks. The group is advocating for such a ban to be implemented at a European level.

Concerns center on the ease with which users can secretly film others. While the glasses feature a recording indicator light, the Consumentenbond claims the light is often difficult to see in sunlight or from a distance. Furthermore, the organization notes that stickers can be used to cover the light; despite Meta’s claims that the camera will cease functioning if the indicator is manipulated, the group asserts that filming remains possible even with these covers.

Director Sandra Molenaar expressed particular concern regarding data handling, noting that all captured photos and videos are sent to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. The organization has criticized Meta for past privacy violations and stated that it remains unclear how the company utilizes the data received through the glasses.