Smart glasses are already causing havoc in India

The rise of smart glasses in India is raising significant privacy and safety concerns, as these inconspicuous devices are increasingly used for non-consensual recording and harassment. A recent incident involving a trans woman in Delhi, who was filmed without consent and subjected to online abuse, highlights the potential for these wearables to facilitate cyberstalking and social harm. While manufacturers like Meta rely on small LED indicators to signal recording, critics argue that these lights are easily bypassed or obscured, making covert surveillance simple. The issue is compounded by the fact that Indian law enforcement is also adopting smart glasses for public surveillance. As affordable alternatives from companies like Reliance Jio enter the market, experts warn that marginalized groups face disproportionate risks. The lack of robust legal protections and the normalization of covert recording suggest that the privacy challenges posed by smart glasses will likely intensify in the near future.