The UK’s data watchdog has written to Meta over reports that private footage filmed on its AI smart glasses can be viewed by outsourced workers in Kenya. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) said it has requested clarity on how Meta is meeting its data protection obligations.
According to Swedish newspapers Svenska Dagbladet and Goteborgs-Posten, subcontractors in Kenya have viewed footage of people having sex, on the toilet, and undressing recorded using Meta glasses. The workers, speaking anonymously, said they did not believe people knew the glasses were recording when such footage was filmed.
One worker reportedly said: “We see everything – from living rooms to naked bodies.” Another added: “There are also sex scenes filmed with the smart glasses – someone is wearing them having sex. That is why this is so extremely sensitive.”
In its UK AI terms, Meta states: “In some cases, Meta will review your interactions with AIs, including the content of your conversations with or messages to AIs, and this review may be automated or manual (human).” The company did not respond to a request for comment.
An ICO spokesperson said: “Devices processing personal data, including smart glasses, should put users in control and provide appropriate transparency. This includes where user data is used to train or develop AI systems. Service providers must clearly explain what data is collected and how it is used.”
The ICO added: “The claims in this article are concerning. We have now written to Meta to request information on how it is meeting its obligations under UK data protection law, and we will consider its response.”
