US Senators Ron Wyden of Oregon and Edward Markey of Massachusetts have initiated a formal investigation into the privacy and safety implications of Meta’s AI smart glasses. In a letter addressed to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the lawmakers highlighted what they described as disturbing invasions of privacy involving the wearable technology.
The senators noted that Meta launched the product despite identifying potential risks to bystanders. The correspondence detailed multiple incidents where the glasses were allegedly used to secretly film women while harassing them. These recordings were reportedly shared on social media platforms, according to articles from 404 Media and the BBC.
Allegations of Secret Recording and AI Training
The inquiry also addresses concerns regarding how footage is handled by Meta’s workforce. The senators cited reports and a lawsuit indicating that AI contractors reviewed video captured by the eyewear showing individuals undressing or engaging in sexual activity. This raises questions about data access and the security protocols surrounding user-generated content.
Wyden and Markey have requested specific details on several operational aspects of the device. They want to know if the glasses automatically blur faces and license plates during certain AI interactions, similar to practices on Facebook and Instagram. The senators also asked for clarification on when imagery becomes accessible to employees or contractors, and whether such data is used to train artificial intelligence models.
Additionally, the lawmakers asked Meta to confirm if it conducted detailed human rights due diligence and safety testing before releasing the glasses. The company has been given until November 26, 2026, to respond to these inquiries.
History of Surveillance Concerns
Complaints about the device have accumulated over time. Users have reported that a recent firmware update caused the glasses to record conversations without consent. The technology has also been spotted on Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents during raids, sparking further debate about law enforcement use.
In January, the New York City Police Department’s counterterrorism unit raised surveillance concerns about the devices. Earlier in October, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have prohibited the use of wearables to secretly record people in private areas of businesses.
The senators emphasized that Meta’s public statements on privacy do not align with the current reality of the product. They stated that the company’s commitment to preventing intimate image abuse rings hollow if it cannot demonstrate meaningful steps to stop its products from facilitating such harms.
Source: Engadget
