The Hindu Business Line : Samsung issues guidelines on ethical use of camera phones

IT'S not just the Internet auction sites that have been rattled by the multi messaging service (MMS) case, which led to the circulation of obscene pictures through camera-enabled mobile phones. Handset manufacturers are also a worried lot.

Mobile handset makers are now rushing to issue guidelines for the ethical use of camera mobile phones. Samsung India on Monday announced the release of `Samsung mobile phone etiquette and responsibility guideline for camera phone users,' which asks users not to shoot and circulate objectionable content.

Mr Kunal Ahooja, Vice President (Telecom), Samsung India Electronics Ltd, said, "Samsung believes that there is a need to use technology responsibly. To facilitate responsible use of integrated devices like the camera phone, Samsung has come up with a set of voluntary guidelines for the user of such devices.

"We at Samsung sincerely request every user to follow this set of guidelines when using the camera or video function of the mobile phone."

Other handset manufacturers like Motorola and Nokia said that the they have been telling their users about ethical usage each time a mobile phone is sold.

The Samsung guidelines recommend that the privacy of persons around the user of the camera phone should be respected.

"Camera phones should not be used to take photographs of individuals without their knowledge and consent.

"Camera phones should not be used to take photographs in public places deemed `private' like swimming pools, changing rooms, gyms."

Recently, photographs of film stars Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor were taken through a camera phone.

Samsung has added that one must respect the individual office and the educational or industrial environment where the confidentiality of design and information is a matter of great importance.

Camera features on the phone should not be used in these areas without the prior approval of theauthorities concerned.

"Camera features on phones should not be used in areas, where cameras are not encouraged or prohibited, like airports, high security zones, museums, cinema theatres and live performances.

"It is dangerous to use camera phones while driving. Users should refrain from using them while driving.

"Camera phones should not be used to shoot and circulate objectionable content. It is illegal and punishable by law," said a Samsung press statement.

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