Photo: EFF
Researchers warn that as smart technologies become more integrated into daily life, they are increasingly being exploited for stalking, harassment, and abuse. A new study published in the CCJ journal found that devices originally designed to improve convenience are now often used as tools of control by abusers.
One growing concern involves smart glasses that closely resemble regular eyewear. Although companies like Meta say the devices include recording indicators, users have already discovered ways to hide them, fueling cases of secret filming and privacy violations.
Bluetooth trackers such as Apple AirTag have also become a major issue. Initially created to help locate lost items, they are increasingly being misused to secretly track people, particularly women. Safety alerts warning users about unknown trackers were introduced only after widespread reports of abuse.
Artificial intelligence has created another serious challenge. Researchers point to AI-generated deepfakes and so-called “undressing apps” that can create fake intimate images without consent. The chatbot Grok from xAI recently faced criticism over the generation of sexualized images of women through simple prompts.
Experts argue that governments and law enforcement agencies are struggling to keep pace with rapidly evolving AI technologies. They stress that user safety should be built into devices and platforms from the design stage, rather than added later after public scandals.
Activists are now calling for stricter global regulations to better protect women, children, and vulnerable users from technology-driven abuse.
