In Japan, silent camera apps open door for unsavory photos

TOKYO -- Cases of smartphone users secretly photographing unsuspecting targets have been on the rise, thanks to applications that silence the camera shutter sound. But there is no legal impediment to creating and selling these software programs, even as apps are tied to complaints of voyeurism.

Companies in the industry say the blame lies with people who misuse these applications rather than the programs themselves.

According to Japan's National Police Agency, 1,741 cases of illicit photography were reported in Japan last year, a 1.6-fold increase from 2006.

The largest number of snap-happy voyeurs was reported in Kanagawa Prefecture. "About 30 percent of cases involved the misuse of smartphone apps," a senior Kanagawa prefectural police investigator said.

The latest applications include "upgraded versions" that enable people to silently take photos while an email or website is displayed on the phone's screen to provide cover for the surreptitious picture-taking.

"We can't help but think these apps are designed specifically for taking sneaky photos," another senior prefectural police investigator said.

According to major cellphone carriers NTT Docomo, KDDI and SoftBank Mobile, smartphone cameras come equipped with a shutter sound. But one main feature of smartphones is that users can customize the settings -- including adjusting or neutralizing the shutter sound, according to the firms.

Keio University professor Keiji

Takeda, an expert on information security, said some rules are needed for these apps.

"There are limits to legally regulating smartphones whose settings can easily be changed," Takeda said. "However, from a corporate ethics viewpoint, we shouldn't ignore the fact that they're being misused for crimes. We need to consider guidelines for screening and putting apps on the market."

Source: http://www.mercurynews.com/business/ci_19647736?source=rss

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