Smart glasses under investigation
Updated: 8 hours ago
By George Podeu.
There are increasing concerns around privacy and the sale of smart glasses after Kmart made the technology cheaper to buy.
The major retailer recently withdrew from sale the Anko camera glasses after public backlash.
The Office of the Australian Information Commission has launched an investigation. They have asked smart glass manufacturers to provide information about how the glasses work, who has access to the recorded information, and where it’s being stored.
“The Australian community has expressed its concern about the proliferation of smart glasses and other surveillance wearables,” said Carly Kind, privacy commissioner. “I would urge responsible retailers to consider whether it is appropriate to continue making these devices available.”
The Commission is investigating Shenzhen Qingcheng Future Technology who created the app ‘HeyCyan’ which the Anko glasses rely on. The Chinese company was asked to provide information to the Australian Information Commission however they have not yet responded.
“I considered it was important to commence an investigation so that I could utilize my full range of powers to examine this issue, including issuing compulsory information gathering notices.”
Australian activist group GetUp! started a petition to demand that the Anko smart glasses be removed from Kmart’s stores and website which currently sits at 57,372. The petition was started as there have been reports of misuse surrounding women and children.
Kmart has not directly released a statement about its removal of the glasses or any privacy concerns.
Comments