Flock announces changes amid backlash over its license plate reader network

August 13, 2026 - 19:52

The company behind one of the largest automated license plate reader networks in the United States is making changes to how its system operates. Flock Safety, which runs tens of thousands of cameras across the country, faced growing backlash from privacy advocates and local communities over the constant collection of vehicle data. The cameras record not just plate numbers but also vehicle make, color, and other identifying details for every car that passes, regardless of whether the driver is suspected of any wrongdoing.

In response to the pressure, Flock announced a series of policy updates aimed at increasing transparency and giving local jurisdictions more control. The changes include shorter data retention periods by default, with a clear opt-in process for longer storage. The company also said it will require agencies to get explicit approval from their governing boards before installing new cameras, rather than relying on individual police departments to make that call.

Critics have long argued that the network creates a de facto surveillance system without proper oversight. They point to incidents where footage was used for non-criminal purposes, such as tracking individuals involved in civil disputes or monitoring people at political events. Flock maintains that its system has helped solve serious crimes, including kidnappings and carjackings, and that the new rules strike a balance between public safety and civil liberties.

The announcement comes as several state legislatures consider bills to restrict the use of automated license plate readers. Flock says it supports federal standards for data sharing and is working with lawmakers to craft rules that allow the technology to remain useful while protecting privacy. The company will also publish an annual transparency report detailing how often law enforcement accesses the data and for what types of cases. Whether these steps will satisfy critics remains unclear, but the shift marks a notable change for a company that has grown rapidly by selling its cameras to suburban towns and cities alike.