security
More organizers prohibit camera-equipped specs, even with prescription lenses
Ahead of DEF CON 2026 opening its doors in Las Vegas next week, conference organizers said they have imposed a ban on “Meta-style glasses with recording capabilities.”Statements made via its social media channels went on to say that no exceptions will be made for those using the devices with prescription lenses.“Be sure to pack non-violating eyewear if you need them,” DEF CON said, before directing delegates to the conference’s official photo policy.
That policy has not been updated since 2023, predating the recent growth of camera-equipped eyewear developed by Meta with EssilorLuxottica under its Ray-Ban and Oakley brands.
It states that public photography is permitted but with several caveats that essentially prohibit capturing the image of anyone, except on-stage speakers, unless the photographer obtains consent from the subject(s).EFF director of cybersecurity Eva Galperin welcomed the decision, saying: “Love to see a ‘no pervert glasses’ policy at DEF CON.”The conference’s reminder follows similar moves from other major organizers and promoters. Monopoly Events banned the same style of smart glasses from its shows, which include UK Comic Cons, in recent days.“After a consultation period, we can no longer permit the wearing of any recording device at our events,” it stated last week. “The vast majority of the talent and agents at our events felt that these were a violation of their privacy and were damaging and spoiling the interactions at the tables. “Several expressed concerns that they might not continue to attend in-person events if they were being recorded in secret.“We had similar feedback from event attendees, many of whom are not comfortable with the knowledge that other convention goers might be filming them without consent.”The event management company said that anyone caught wearing glasses with recording capabilities may be asked to leave the show and forfeit any unfulfilled autographs or photographs they had purchased.
