Flock ALPR cameras spark privacy backlash amid misuse reports

The article discusses the growing backlash against Flock cameras, which use automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology. Despite being marketed as crime-fighting tools, there are increasing concerns about privacy violations and civil liberties, with reports of widespread surveillance and misuse by law enforcement. The ACLU estimates that there are between 80,000 and 100,000 Flock cameras in the U.S. Misuse cases include officers using the technology for personal stalking.

Additionally, there are concerns about the accuracy of the data collected, as seen in incidents where vehicles were incorrectly flagged as stolen. Agencies are beginning to act on these concerns, with some terminating contracts or pausing the use of such technologies, indicating a shift in institutional attitudes towards Flock's ALPR systems.