The move comes amid growing concerns over the potential misuse of camera-equipped wearable technology.

The Punjab government has decided to ban objects equipped with hidden cameras and recording devices, including pens, eyeglasses and watches, citing concerns over privacy and the misuse of technology for surveillance.

According to a statement issued by the Punjab Home Department on Monday, the decision aims to protect citizens’ privacy and personal information, particularly that of women and children.

The department said strict legal action would be taken against the use, purchase and sale of “spying devices and covert electronic devices”. It also warned that the illegal use of objects fitted with hidden cameras could result in severe penalties.

Complaints Over Surveillance and Blackmail

The Home Department said it had received complaints about the use of spying devices for illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail.

Punjab Home Secretary Ahmad Javed Qazi told Dawn that a formal notification implementing the ban would be issued within a few days.

He explained that the government had announced the decision before issuing the notification to give people time to discard such items.

Lahore High Court Hears Smart Glasses Petition

The move comes amid growing concerns over the potential misuse of camera-equipped wearable technology.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) is hearing a public interest petition challenging the unregulated import and sale of smart glasses equipped with cameras and microphones. The petition raises concerns about privacy, human dignity and national security.

Meta has faced criticism over its AI-powered smart glasses, with some critics referring to the devices as “pervert glasses”. Although Pakistan has not been officially listed as a market for the product, the petitioner’s counsel has argued that the glasses are openly available online and in shops in Lahore.

Hearing the petition on Thursday, the LHC directed the federal government to forward a summary to the federal cabinet concerning the unregulated import and sale of smart glasses.

The Punjab government’s planned ban and the ongoing court proceedings highlight concerns over the use of covert recording technology and the need to address potential violations of privacy.