Usher Becomes Target of Digital Exploitation: Lessons from the Ebemartono Case

A content creator, identified by the social media handle @ebemartono, is facing widespread criticism for allegedly using smart glasses to secretly record an usher working at a booth during the GIIAS automotive exhibition. The creator then reportedly uploaded the video with a narrative that made the usher, who goes by @leonnyluhendo, feel uncomfortable and exploited.

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When I was talking to them, I had no idea I was being filmed. At that time, I thought he was just recording the back and the car I was guarding. Because if the content was about the car or the booth I was guarding, that would be permissible.

According to a Threads post by @leonnyluhendo, the usher initially believed the creator was inquiring about the car and explaining its features. However, the creator was allegedly recording secretly, with the smart glasses' indicator light turned off. "I had no idea I was being filmed," @leonnyluhendo stated, adding that they assumed the recording was focused on the car or booth they were guarding.

The uploaded video, titled "how to approach a girl at an exhibition," shifted the focus from the automotive display to the usher herself. @leonnyluhendo requested the video be taken down, but the creator refused, citing that recording in public spaces is not against the rules. The creator even allegedly demanded payment for the video's removal.

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If their video content was about the crowd or they were filming themselves and I accidentally entered the video, that would be fine. But what happened here is that I was made the main object of the video, so I have the right to ask for the video to be taken down.

Following the video's virality and the ensuing public backlash, Ebemartono eventually removed the video and posted a clarification and apology. The incident has sparked a discussion about the ethical boundaries between content creation in public spaces and the violation of privacy. Digital and social media expert Enda Nasution commented that while recording in public is generally permissible, it must be done with respect for others' privacy. He stressed that intentionally recording someone, especially with clear facial recognition and interaction, requires consent, and failure to obtain it constitutes an ethical breach. Openness about the recording process is also crucial, and if consent is denied, the recording should not proceed.

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If someone is intentionally recorded, their face is clearly visible, and we talk to them or get to know them, then it must be with permission. If not, it violates ethics. We also need to be open that we are recording a video. If the person does not allow it, then of course we cannot.