Aiming to counter potentially lawless use of cellphone cameras to snap unsuspecting subjects, The Consumer Electronics Association, the main trade group for gadget makers of all types, has published a set of guidelines meant to defuse growing efforts to restrict the use of mobile phones equipped with digital cameras.
Responsible use of wireless devices now includes the increasingly popular camera phone, and the Consumer Electronics Association today released a new "Camera Phone Code of Conduct" to help educate consumers about proper etiquette and safe operation when using these devices.
Commenting on the new code, CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro said, "The digital camera phone market is growing, with an estimated 11.7 million units shipping to retailers this year alone. We hope that consumers will keep in mind the public responsibility that comes with owning this type of product, and encourage retailers to actively educate their customers about appropriate use of these devices."
"Camera phones are an increasingly important and prevalent technology in the wireless industry," said John Shalam, CEA wireless division chairman and chairman and CEO of Audiovox Corporation. "By helping promote responsible adoption, we can help ensure that the technology continues to grow and that consumers see the true benefit of these integrated devices."
Meanwhile, the Video Voyeurism Prevention Act, approved by the Senate last September, generates fines and up to a year in prison for anyone caught taking covert pictures in locker rooms, bedrooms and other places where people expect privacy.
The voluntary guidelines presented by CEA in the Code of Conduct include seven tenets:
1. Camera phones should not be used where photographic equipment is typically banned, for example: museums, movie theaters, and live performances. Users should look for signs posted in public places, which indicate whether photographic equipment is banned.
2. Camera phones should not be used in public areas considered "private" by those who use them, for example: bathrooms, changing rooms, and gym locker rooms.
3. Camera phones should not be used without authorization to record and/or transfer confidential information. This may apply within a corporate, government or educational environment.
4. Camera phones should not be used to take photos of individuals without their knowledge and consent.
5. Discretion is advised when using a camera phone to take photos of individuals under the age of 18.
6. Safety is paramount when operating a motor vehicle. Users should refrain from using the camera or video function of a wireless phone when driving.
7. Camera phone users should always respect the privacy of others. Photography of individuals without their consent, when and where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, may be prohibited by law.
For more information on camera phone etiquette, and for a list of creative camera phone uses, consumers should visit www.ce.org/cameraphone or contact CEA at (703) 907-7600.
