Getting consent
Before recording a conversation with your Kuno device, you need the consent of everyone involved. In Germany, that's not just fair practice — it's required by law (Section 201 StGB).
At a glance
- Section 201 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) makes it a criminal offense to record non-public spoken conversations without consent - regardless of the fact that Kuno stores your data in the EU.
- Consent must be obtained from all conversation participants before the recording starts, ideally explicitly and verifiably.
- The visible recording LED on the Kuno device makes the recording noticeable to everyone - a helpful transparency cue, but not a substitute for consent.
- Consent, once given, can be withdrawn at any time; stop the recording immediately if it is.
- Kuno stores data exclusively in the EU and in compliance with the GDPR - but the legal obligation to obtain consent still rests with you as the person recording.
- If you're unsure, our team at [email protected] can help.
Kuno makes recording simple — but the responsibility for making a lawful recording still rests with you. This guide shows you how to obtain consent correctly.
Why consent is required
In Germany, Section 201 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) protects the confidentiality of the spoken word. Anyone who records another person’s non-public spoken conversation on an audio device without that person’s consent is committing a criminal offense. This applies equally to staff conversations, client meetings, phone calls, and confidential discussions.
Important: this obligation exists regardless of the fact that Kuno processes your recordings exclusively on EU servers and in strict compliance with the GDPR. Our data sovereignty protects your data — but it doesn’t replace the consent of the people you’re speaking with.
Note: A secret recording is unlawful even if you only intend to use it for yourself. Always obtain consent before starting.
How to obtain consent
- Ask before switching on. Let everyone present know that you want to record the conversation with Kuno, and state the purpose (e.g., minutes, follow-up).
- Wait for explicit agreement. Ask actively — a simple “Yes, that’s fine” from everyone involved is enough. Silence is not consent.
- Start the recording. Only then press the record button on the Kuno device. The visible recording LED lights up, making it clear to everyone that recording is now underway.
- Document if needed. In sensitive contexts, it’s a good idea to briefly note the consent given, either audibly during the conversation or in writing.
Creating transparency
The lit recording LED on the Kuno device signals at all times that a recording is in progress — a deliberate design choice for openness. It’s a valuable trust signal, but it doesn’t replace explicit consent.
Withdrawal at any time
Consent is voluntary and can be withdrawn at any time. If someone doesn’t want the recording to continue, stop it immediately using the Kuno app or the device. You can then delete the relevant recording in the app on request.
Still have questions?
Not sure whether a conversation counts as non-public, or how to document consent in your case? Write to us at [email protected] — we’re happy to help. We can’t provide legal advice; if in doubt, consult a lawyer.