A controversial new parody advertisement targeting Meta's AI smart glasses has appeared at a London bus stop, featuring convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein wearing the technology. Created by activist group Everyone Hates Elon, the fake advert features Epstein's sex-offender registry image alongside the message: 'Glasses for people who don't do consent.'
The stunt is the latest attack on Meta's camera-equipped smart glasses, which have faced growing criticism over privacy concerns and fears that the devices could be misused for recording people without their knowledge. The group's latest campaign follows an earlier billboard stunt that transformed Kylie Jenner's Meta glasses advert into a warning about surveillance with the phrase: 'We're always watching.'
Why Did Activists Choose Epstein's Photo?
The Jeffrey Epstein advert was part of Everyone Hates Elon's ongoing criticism of AI-powered wearable technology. The image references Epstein's history of sexual abuse and trafficking crimes, using his association with non-consensual exploitation to highlight concerns about smart glasses being used to record strangers.
Epstein, who died in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, had been accused of abusing and exploiting numerous victims, including underage girls. His crimes have become widely associated with discussions around consent, power and exploitation.
By placing Epstein alongside Meta's glasses, the group aimed to draw attention to what it sees as the potential dangers of easily accessible recording technology. Critics of the devices argue that cameras built into everyday accessories could make it easier for people to capture images or videos of others without permission.
Public Anger Grows Over Privacy Risks
The advert comes after increasing public criticism of Meta's AI glasses, which include built-in cameras and microphones. Although the devices feature an indicator light when recording, some critics argue that the technology still creates uncomfortable situations in public spaces.
Concerns have intensified after reports of people using the glasses for unwanted recordings, including prank videos and content featuring strangers. Instagram has also taken action against videos created with the glasses when they involve harassment or recording people without consent.
Online reactions to the campaign reflected wider concerns about privacy. Some users called for the glasses to be renamed 'pervert glasses,' while others suggested mocking names including 'groomer glasses,' 'sicko specs' and 'Lech lenses.'
One commenter wrote that the technology was 'one of those things that should have remained an idea.' Another said: 'I don't understand how these glasses are legally allowed to operate in public?'
What Is Everyone Hates Elon?
Everyone Hates Elon is an activist group known for creating provocative campaigns targeting technology companies and high-profile figures. The group uses parody advertisements, public installations and social media campaigns to criticise issues including corporate influence, artificial intelligence and privacy.
The group gained attention through previous anti-Elon Musk campaigns, often using humour and familiar advertising formats to challenge the power of major tech companies. Its Meta glasses campaign follows the same approach by recreating the style of commercial advertising while turning the message into a warning about surveillance.
Its earlier Kylie Jenner billboard stunt focused on fears that smart glasses could normalise constant recording. The latest Epstein advert takes a more controversial approach by using a figure strongly associated with exploitation and lack of consent to make its point.
