Smart glasses users risk unknowingly breaking the law, professor warns

Smart glasses equipped with cameras, such as Meta’s recently released models now sold in Finland, can lead to criminal charges if used carelessly, warns Tomi Voutilainen, professor of public law at the University of Eastern Finland.

Voutilainen highlights three key legal risks for users who record with smart glasses: unauthorized recording in private spaces may constitute voyeurism; sharing footage of others without consent can violate privacy laws; and pairing recordings with offensive commentary may lead to defamation charges.

Penalties can range from fines to conditional imprisonment, especially for repeat offenses. The professor emphasizes that ignorance of the law is not a valid defense.

He is particularly concerned about minors using the devices in schools, noting that existing case law already covers video recording offenses. While public recording is generally permitted under free speech, misuse—such as sharing footage with derogatory captions—can still result in legal consequences.

Voutilainen advises caution, suggesting users avoid wearing the glasses in public or around others to prevent potential violations of privacy or criminal law.