In a concerning trend, women are being secretly filmed and humiliated online by users of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. Sales have tripled, raising urgent privacy concerns.

Unwanted Attention and Exploitation

Dilara, a 21-year-old shop assistant, was approached by a man who recorded their interaction and uploaded it to TikTok without her consent. the video amassed over 1.3 million views, and Dilara received unwanted messages and calls.

Kim, a 56-year-old woman, was filmed on the beach and received explicit messages. Oonagh, in Brighton, was filmed in the street and accused of enjoying the attention.. Alice was recorded while walking down the street and asked to pay for the video's removal.

Surge in Sales and Competitors

Sales of the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses have tripled, reaching over seven million globally last year and expected to reach up to 16 million this year. tech giants like Apple, Snap, and Google are preparing their own versions.

However, as sales surge, so do fears about how the devices are being used, with many women reporting unwanted attention and exploitation.

Privacy Concerns and Lack of Regulation

The glasses' discreet design makes it nearly impossible for people to know when they're being recorded. While Meta has implemented some safeguards , critics argue they're insufficient. Some countries, like South Korea, have begun addressing the issue , but enforcement remains challenging.

Calls for Stricter Regulations

Experts argue for stricter regulations, including mandatory visual indicators when recording is active. It's crucial for lawmakers, tech companies, and society to address these challenges before more women fall victim to digital voyeurism.