Privacy fears are driving more local businesses to ban the use of mobile phones with built-in cameras. With an absence of laws to restrict the use of such devices, some companies are taking the initiative, following outcries over illicitly captured internet pornography and voyeurism overseas.
Phillip Wain Hong Kong, a fitness club and day spa for women, was among the first businesses in Hong Kong to spell out restrictions on the high-technology mobile phones. Members were informed that camera phones were prohibited in some areas of the club, such as changing and shower rooms.
Nancy Yip, Phillip Wain public relations and marketing manager, said members were informed of the rule at the start of the year.
'We have staff monitoring the use of mobile phones in the club,' Ms Yip said. 'As it is a ladies-only club, we do not think it is something that will be abused. But we felt it necessary to define our club rule on the issue.'
At least one other Hong Kong gym, the Physical chain, is prohibiting the use of camera phones in locker rooms.
Other fitness clubs are forming new club rules against camera phones.
Seasons Sports Club, a fitness club for both sexes, said it had not found instances of camera-phone abuse and was yet to define its policy on the use of these devices on club premises.
