The Punjab government has decided to ban “spying objects” fitted with hidden cameras or recording devices. These include pens, eyeglasses and watches. The decision was announced on Monday, 19 October 2026, but the legal notification has not been issued yet. Here is what is known, what is still unclear and how to protect your privacy.
What Punjab Has Decided
According to Dawn, the Punjab Home Department said that objects used for spying, such as pens, glasses and watches with hidden cameras or recording devices, will be banned. The statement also refers more widely to “spying devices and covert electronic devices.”
- The government promises “strict legal action” over the use, purchase and sale of such devices.
- It also promises “severe penalties” for illegal use. No specific fines or jail terms were given.
- Punjab Home Secretary Ahmad Javed Qazi told Dawn that the notification will be issued “in a few days.”
- The announcement was made before the notification so that people have time to get rid of such items.
Dawn’s report does not describe a bill, an Act or a cabinet vote. It also lists no exemptions, for example for licensed security or investigation work.
Why the Government Says It Is Acting
The statement says the aim is to protect citizens’ privacy and personal information, especially for women and children. It cites complaints about illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail.
The Smart Glasses Case in Lahore High Court
The announcement comes while the Lahore High Court is hearing a petition about camera-equipped smart glasses. ProPakistani reported on 9 October that the petitioner, Nadira Bibi, asked for an immediate ban on the sale of these glasses. She said they are sold in markets and supermarkets, can record people secretly and have not been approved by any government body. The court called officials from the Interior Ministry, FBR, Commerce Ministry and Customs.
Dawn says the court last Thursday directed the federal government to send a summary on the issue to the federal cabinet. It also notes that Meta has faced criticism over its smart glasses but has not officially listed Pakistan as a market. It is not clear whether the Punjab ban would cover all smart glasses or only those made to hide a camera. The notification should settle that.
A Separate Bill Is in Draft
In June, ProPakistani reported that Punjab had prepared a draft law, the Punjab Control of Habitual Offenders and Anti-Social Behavior Act 2026, which includes secretly recording someone’s private moments, as well as stalking, cyber bullying and digital blackmail. That article’s headline said secret filming was already a crime, but the text says the law was still a draft. I could not confirm whether it has since been passed. It is not the same thing as the new ban on devices.
What You Should Do Now
- Do not buy or use pens, glasses, watches, keychains or other objects with hidden cameras until the notification is out and you know what it covers.
- Sellers: wait for the notification and check which items it lists before stocking or selling more.
- If you already own one: do not use it to record people without their knowledge. Wait for official guidance on what to do with it.
How to Protect Your Privacy
These are general safety tips and not part of the government statement.
- Be careful in changing rooms, hotel rooms, rented houses and washrooms. Look for objects pointing at you that seem out of place.
- Check for small holes, lenses or blinking lights in smoke detectors, clocks, chargers and similar items.
- Turn off the lights and look for small lens reflections or lights.
- Be aware when someone wears glasses or a pen that points at you during a private moment.
If You Find a Hidden Camera or Are Being Recorded
- Do not touch or move the device, if you can avoid it. It may be evidence.
- Take photos of where it is placed.
- Call Police Helpline 15 in Punjab if you are in danger, or report to your nearest police station.
- If images are posted or used to blackmail you, keep screenshots and report to the cybercrime authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being banned?
Objects such as pens, glasses and watches with hidden cameras or recording devices, as reported by Dawn.
Is the ban in force yet?
Not yet. The notification is expected in a few days.
What is the punishment?
The Home Department promises strict legal action and severe penalties. No specific penalty has been announced.
Does it cover all smart glasses?
This is not clear. The Lahore High Court is hearing a separate case on smart glasses.
Does the ban apply outside Punjab?
It is a Punjab government decision. No other province has been reported to follow.
The ban could be a step towards stronger privacy protection, but its details depend on the notification. Follow that announcement before you buy, sell or use any such device.
