PERSPECTIVES FROM THE CAMPUS

One of the strengths of Indiana is that we bring together a variety of perspectives from the plethora of areas that touch the field of cyber, especially through the colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher education throughout our state. Hence the name, “Perspectives from the Campus”, we invite experts – immersed in the pursuit of educating their students – to offer their knowledge for finding solutions in cybersecurity that benefit all Hoosiers.

In today’s blog, David Dungan, who serves as the executive director at the Center for Security Services and Cyber Defense at Anderson University, takes a look through the lenses of today’s smart glasses to share his perspective on what we’re seeing – both in terms of the innovation it represents, as well as the potential for what it means when it comes to our privacy and for those who we’re looking at.

By David Dungan

Smart glasses are a breakthrough in wearable technology, adding visual elements to the wearer without distorting their vision and interaction with the world.

With Meta AI glasses, made in collaboration with Ray-Ban, users can access their camera, record audio, and use artificial intelligence (AI) in a more convenient manner than smartphones. And it’s not just Meta that offers these types of smart glasses, with brands such as Xreal, Viture, Solos, RayNeo, and Amazon Echo Frames. These alternatives also offer features like integrated cameras, open-ear audio, and AI assistants, often with different design aesthetics and focus areas.

However, as their popularity increases and more people purchase them, the question of how they might affect someone’s personal and public safety becomes more prevalent.

A major concern with smart glasses starts with the built-in camera and microphone, which are always on and listening for the cue. Because of this, the features also affect people who aren’t wearing the glasses, especially if they’re unaware that the glasses are being used to record them. And while it’s true smart glasses could be useful in a courtroom, recording other people without their permission or knowledge can be tricky, especially depending on where you are when it happens. In particular, it could enable a person to engage in doxing or stalking someone or having any identifying information on unsuspecting people (for example, their addresses, classes, schedule, etc.).

Similar to dash cams that are used by drivers, being able to always record something that’s taking place in front of you might help to deter or discourage someone from engaging in unsafe driving/behavior, theft, or withholding information/evidence.

Conversely, it could be used, potentially, to help create safer environments while ensuring a greater measure of accountability. In medical settings, wearable technology provides real-time health monitoring, support, and emergency alerts. In providing hands-free access, it could help in facilitating telemedicine, allowing for remote consultations and diagnoses.

What’s more, cloud storage introduces vulnerabilities and data risks. For its part, Meta attempts to combat safety concerns by adding a small LED blinking light to indicate its recording. However, that feature could be unclear to the people around them and may not adequately inform those who are engaged in a conversation. Additionally, the battery life might not be sufficient for all-day use, and some users report issues with the frame build quality and audio quality in louder environments.

As it is whenever a new form of technology is developed or a product is brought to market, there is a responsibility not only with the manufacturer, but also with each of us, in how we use it. There’s no doubt that smart glasses offer convenience and protection and its features will, no doubt, continue to evolve at a rapid rate.

As it does, we will do well to focus on keeping in mind, as much as possible, the ethical considerations that come with anything that contributes to the collective progress we achieve as a part of our everyday life. And that includes using products in a way that’s not only responsible, but that it’s safe and secure.