Flock Safety, a surveillance technology company, announced on August 14, 2026, that it will implement changes to its license plate reader system in response to privacy concerns raised by lawmakers, civil liberties advocates, and citizens. The company operates a nationwide network of automated cameras that record license plate numbers and vehicle characteristics, which law enforcement agencies can access for investigations. Critics argue that the system facilitates unconstitutional mass surveillance, leading to some cities severing ties with Flock due to concerns over unauthorized data access.
Flock CEO Garrett Langley stated that the changes will make certain safeguards mandatory for law enforcement users by January 1, including an audit tool to detect abnormal search behavior. The standard data retention period will be reduced from 30 days to 7 days, with extensions allowed for evidence linked to specific cases. Additionally, law enforcement users will need to tie searches to specific cases and will have the option to restrict which offenses can be searched by outside agencies.
Critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union, expressed skepticism about the changes, suggesting they may not adequately prevent misuse. Some experts called for more comprehensive oversight and judicial checks on the use of such technology. Since the beginning of the year, over 50 agencies have canceled or suspended contracts with Flock, reflecting a growing backlash against the technology. In Congress, at least two bills have been introduced to limit its use.