U.S. lawmakers express privacy concerns over upcoming Google Glass

WASHINGTON, May 17 (UPI) -- Eight members of Congress say they're concerned Google's wearable computer, Google Glass, could violate the privacy "of the average American."

The lawmakers said they worry Google Glass users could identify people on the street and access individuals' addresses, marital status, work history and hobbies, The Hill reported Friday.

"As members of the Congressional Bi-Partisan Privacy Caucus, we are curious whether this new technology could infringe on the privacy of the average American," the lawmakers said in a letter to Google Chief Executive Officer Larry Page.

The letter was signed by Reps. Joe Barton, R-Texas, John Barrow, D-Ga., Steve Chabot, R-Ohio, Hank Johnson, D-Ga., Walter Jones, R-N.C., Richard Nugent, R-Fla., Bobby Rush, D-Ill., and Loretta Sanchez, D-Calif.

Google Glass will use a voice-activated interface to allow users to take pictures, send messages, look up directions or access the Internet, and the lawmakers have asked Page what kind of data Glass will collect and whether it will be able to use facial-recognition technology.

In their letter, the lawmakers have asked Google to explain how it will ensure Glass does not unintentionally collect data without people's permission.

A Google spokeswoman responded with an email statement that said: "We are thinking very carefully about how we design Glass because new technology always raises new issues."