Meta removes Amsterdam satirist’s video about smart glasses

Instagram has removed a video by satirical journalist Roel Maalderink that showed him asking Meta employees how they feel about camera glasses.

Maalderink filmed the interaction using the smart glasses after instructing the device to start recording. The glasses resemble standard frames but allow users to take photos and video covertly.

Removal on harassment grounds

The workers featured in the video had their faces blurred and were unrecognisable, though they expressed displeasure about being recorded. Meta removed the clip from Instagram citing bullying and harassment policies.

The project was produced in collaboration with digital rights organisation Bits of Freedom. The video remains available to view on YouTube.

Maalderink said in a statement that he has made satirical videos about topics including Gaza, Ukraine and refugees for a decade, and this was his first takedown.

Privacy concerns and debate

Bits of Freedom said the removal demonstrated Meta’s control over public debate, arguing that the company left no room for criticism aimed at itself.

Earlier the same week, the Dutch privacy watchdog AP warned that sharing footage captured with camera glasses violates GDPR regulations unless every person shown gives permission.

Source: dutchnews.nl