Flock Safety is in the news over ALPR debates and privacy concerns as cities tighten rules; here's the baseline: U.S. security tech firm, sells auto license plate readers and surveillance software.
San Jose's City Council approved new safeguards for its license plate reader network, including data retention limits and restrictions on camera placement. Critics argue these measures fall short of protecting privacy, especially amid concerns over data sharing with out-of-state law enforcement and federal agencies. The debate highlights ongoing tensions between public safety and civil liberties.
The US Supreme Court has heard arguments in Chatrie v. United States, testing whether geofence warrants — court orders that compel companies to produce location histories for devices near a crime — violate the Fourth Amendment. The case stems from a 2019 Virginia bank robbery that used a Google geofence to identify a suspect.
The debate over live facial recognition has intensified as authorities weigh stricter rules and public concerns. Scotland is considering a bespoke code of practice, while the Home Office is exploring a broader national framework. Polls show mixed public views on rollout.