Anti-Surveillance Fashion (CV Dazzle)

Patterns and textiles designed to confuse computer vision algorithms.
Anti-Surveillance Fashion (CV Dazzle)

Anti-surveillance fashion uses specific design patterns, materials, and technologies to interfere with automated surveillance systems including facial recognition, person detection, and tracking algorithms. Techniques include CV Dazzle (high-contrast patterns that break up facial recognition), infrared-blocking fabrics, reflective materials that confuse cameras, and accessories that obscure biometric features. These garments provide a form of physical privacy protection in environments where surveillance is pervasive.

This innovation addresses growing concerns about privacy in an era of ubiquitous surveillance, where facial recognition and tracking technologies are deployed in public spaces, retail environments, and online platforms. Anti-surveillance fashion offers individuals a way to assert control over their privacy and visibility, using clothing as a tool for resistance against automated monitoring. Designers and researchers are developing these technologies, though effectiveness varies and surveillance systems continue to evolve.

The technology represents a form of technological counter-culture, where fashion becomes a tool for privacy protection and resistance to surveillance. As surveillance technologies become more sophisticated and widespread, anti-surveillance fashion offers individuals a means of maintaining some control over their privacy. However, the effectiveness of these techniques is an ongoing arms race with surveillance technology, and their use may raise legal questions in some jurisdictions. The technology highlights broader questions about privacy, surveillance, and individual rights in increasingly monitored environments.

TRL
5/9Validated
Impact
2/5
Investment
1/5
Category
Ethics & Security
Technologies raising new governance or societal considerations.