GJC Law Associate Noelle Teoh was featured in Channel NewsAsia (CNA) commenting on the legal and privacy issues surrounding the use of smart glasses and other wearable recording devices in Singapore.
The CNA Explains article examined when filming another person in public may cross the line into unlawful conduct, amid growing concerns over increasingly discreet recording technology.
Commenting on the legal position, Noelle explained that while the technology itself is not inherently unlawful, existing laws concerning voyeurism, harassment and data protection may apply regardless of the device used.
She also addressed the publication of recorded footage online. Noelle noted that there is no general rule requiring a person’s face to be blurred simply because they did not consent to being filmed in public.
However, where identifying someone serves no purpose, particularly in sensitive situations or where children are involved, blurring may be a sensible precaution.
Noelle further explained that publishing information that identifies an individual may, depending on the circumstances and intention involved, raise issues of doxxing and harassment.
For individuals concerned about being filmed, she advised prioritising personal safety rather than physically confronting the person or attempting to seize their device.
Where possible, relevant evidence should be preserved, including the time and location of the incident, a description of the person involved, and screenshots or links if footage is subsequently published online.
The discussion highlights how established laws continue to apply as recording technology becomes increasingly discreet, while raising broader questions about how legislation, industry practices and product design may evolve in response to emerging privacy concerns.
Source: Channel News Asia
