The data protection authorities of the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey have issued a joint advisory urging caution over the growing use of smart glasses.
They warn that the discreet devices can record people and conversations without their knowledge.
The authorities say the technology’s hands‑free photo, video and audio features make it difficult for bystanders to know when they are being captured, with recordings potentially stored or processed by manufacturers through cloud services outside the islands.
They note that smart glasses are increasingly appearing in workplaces and business settings, and advise organisations to consider what information may be collected, how it will be used and who may ultimately access it.
Smart Glasses
Dr Alexandra Delaney‑Bhattacharya, the Isle of Man Information Commissioner, said the same features that make smart glasses helpful, particularly for people with disabilities, also make them easy to misuse.
She highlighted that women and girls are disproportionately filmed without consent and warned that footage can be shared widely or handled overseas.
The authorities stress that smart glasses can have legitimate benefits but are calling on users to be mindful of those around them, including thinking carefully about when recording is appropriate and how captured data is stored.
The full advisory, including practical steps for individuals and organisations, is available on the Information Commissioner’s website.
