Australian privacy regulator launches investigation into software provider behind 'pervert glasses'

The Australian privacy commissioner, Carly Kind, has launched a formal investigation into Shenzhen Qingcheng, the China-based software company behind the HeyCyan app used in Kmart’s Anko-branded smartglasses. The probe follows significant public outcry and safety concerns regarding the covert recording capabilities of these affordable wearable devices. While Kmart has removed the product from its website, the investigation focuses on the software provider's failure to respond to inquiries and concerns regarding its privacy policies. This case highlights the challenges of applying current privacy laws to surveillance wearables. The commissioner noted that proposed legislative reforms, including a shift to a 'fair and reasonable' test for data collection, are essential to address the growing prevalence of discreet recording technology. Local councils across Australia have already moved to ban the use of such devices in public spaces like swimming pools, citing potential harassment and privacy risks.