Subscribe now

WITH the rise of camera phones, it is becoming increasingly difficult to prevent people sneaking shots of works of art, say, or classified military hardware. But now there is a system that can automatically detect camera phones and fire out rays of light to distort any pictures they take.

Previous attempts to prevent camera phones taking images have used Bluetooth or radio signals to beam messages to all nearby handsets, reminding owners they are not allowed to take pictures. Other technologies have required special software to be downloaded onto the cellphone before they will work. But neither is any good…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop