Singapore police are investigating a man who was allegedly seen in a viral video wearing smart glasses while following female students. The incident, which circulated on social media this week, has prompted a police report and public debate about the legality of filming strangers in public spaces.
Under Singapore law, there is no general prohibition on taking photographs or videos of people in public places. However, the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) governs the collection, use, and disclosure of personal data, including images that can identify individuals. The PDPA generally does not apply to individuals acting in a personal or domestic capacity, but it does apply to organisations. Filming for harassment or stalking purposes can also fall foul of the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA).
Legal experts note that while filming in public is not automatically illegal, the context matters. If the filming is done with the intent to harass, alarm, or distress the subject, it could constitute an offence under POHA. Additionally, if the footage is published or shared without consent and causes distress, it may lead to legal consequences. The use of smart glasses, which can record discreetly, raises additional concerns about privacy and consent.
The police are investigating the specific incident. As of now, no charges have been filed. The case highlights the need for clearer guidelines on emerging technologies and privacy in Singapore.
