Punjab bans spy gadgets disguised as everyday items

The Punjab government has decided to ban the use and sale of electronic devices designed for covert surveillance, including glasses, pens and watches fitted with hidden cameras or recording equipment, citing concerns over privacy and the misuse of personal information.

Officials said the move aims to prevent unauthorised surveillance and protect citizens, particularly women and children, from harassment, blackmail and the misuse of private information.

The government said complaints had emerged about people being filmed without their consent, conversations being secretly recorded and private information being obtained through concealed recording devices.

The proposed restrictions cover everyday items fitted with hidden cameras or recording equipment. Both their use and sale will be prohibited, while violators will face strict legal action, according to the government.

Punjab authorities said protecting citizens’ fundamental rights, personal information and privacy remained a priority.

They stressed the need to prevent the misuse of covert recording devices that could expose people to harassment, illegal surveillance and blackmail.

The move comes amid legal scrutiny of smart glasses and their potential privacy and security implications.

The Lahore High Court had directed relevant officials to appear in person in a case concerning the sale of smart glasses, particularly Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.

The court had sought responses from the federal ministries of commerce and interior, the Federal Board of Revenue and customs authorities.

However, details about the implementation date of Punjab’s ban, the relevant legal notification and the specific penalties for violations were not immediately available.