The Punjab government is planning to ban hidden spy gadgets amid growing concerns about harassment, blackmail, and the safety of women and children. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the provincial government has decided to introduce restrictions on these devices and take strict legal action against their misuse.
The proposed ban will cover devices fitted with hidden cameras and secret recording technology, including smart glasses, pens, watches and other everyday items that can be used to record people without their knowledge.
The decision was made during a Punjab Cabinet meeting held on Monday, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said the move was aimed at protecting women and children from the misuse of covert recording devices. The provincial government said it had received complaints about illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail allegedly involving concealed cameras and other spying equipment.
The proposed restrictions are intended to prevent people from using ordinary personal belongings to secretly record others without their knowledge or consent.
The government has warned that strict legal action will be taken against the use, purchase and sale of spying equipment and concealed electronic devices. It has also indicated that illegally using everyday items fitted with hidden cameras could result in severe penalties.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over privacy violations and the use of covert technology in cases of harassment and blackmail, particularly involving vulnerable groups.
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However, the government has not yet shared details about the specific laws that will be introduced, how the ban will be enforced, or what penalties violators could face.
Smart glasses have also raised security concerns because their built-in cameras and recording features can capture sensitive information without attracting attention. This could expose confidential conversations, documents and restricted areas within government and military facilities.
Some models can also connect to smartphones and online services, creating the risk of sensitive information being shared without authorisation. Artificial intelligence features in these devices may add to privacy concerns by analysing images and collecting information about people and their surroundings.