Kenya Opens Probe Into Meta AI Glasses Over Privacy Concerns

Kenya’s data protection authority has opened a formal investigation into the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses over concerns about privacy and data use.

In a letter dated 31 March, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) said it had initiated suo moto investigations into the potential risks linked to the devices. The inquiry will examine how personally identifiable information is collected and processed, particularly in relation to training artificial intelligence systems. 

The regulator said that its findings will be made public once the process is complete. The decision follows a petition signed by more than 150 organisations and individuals calling for scrutiny of the technology’s human rights implications. 

The Oversight Lab had earlier written to the Commissioner on 6 March, warning that the glasses could be used for covert surveillance and the recording of sensitive material without consent. It also raised concerns about the use of collected data for AI training and urged prompt regulatory action.

Mercy Mutemi, Executive Director of The Oversight Lab, welcomed the investigation and emphasised the need for a transparent and inclusive process. She said public participation is important, particularly as vulnerable groups could face increased risks if adequate safeguards are not enforced.

Concerns have also been raised about reports that footage captured by the glasses is being processed by workers at Samasource Kenya EPZ Limited in Nairobi. These workers are responsible for reviewing and labelling content, including potentially sensitive material. 

Critics argue that this work may expose employees to harmful content without sufficient protection. Similar concerns have emerged in other countries. Regulators in the United Kingdom have questioned the use of the devices, while legal challenges in the United States focus on data handling practices.