Flock Locks Cops Out: New Tool Targets Abusers

Flock has announced a mandatory requirement for all agencies accessing license plate reader data to implement its audit assistance tool. This technology automatically detects and flags abnormal user activity, suspending access until an administrator reviews it, aiming to prevent recurring or widespread misuse. Previously an optional feature, only a third of agencies had adopted it. Dozens of incidents, including one in Georgia where three officers were arrested for stalking acquaintances using Flock cameras, prompted this change.

Despite Flock's CEO acknowledging the need for mandatory implementation, experts like the ACLU have raised concerns about the tool's proven efficacy. They caution that there is currently no data to substantiate its ability to reliably detect nefarious logins or malicious activity. The ACLU recommends independent evaluation, warning that the tool might be superficial rather than a robust security measure against stalker cops. Transparency from agencies regarding detected abuses is crucial for assessing the tool's true impact.

Further concerns exist regarding the mandatory case number requirement for searches, with experts suggesting it's easily circumvented. The effectiveness of this measure remains doubtful, as it was previously an optional feature that did little to prevent abuse. Flock cameras are now in use across nearly all US states by numerous law enforcement agencies, raising broad privacy concerns that extend to competitors' automated license plate readers. Critics argue Flock's changes are a PR effort lacking substance, potentially providing a false sense of security without demonstrable proof of preventing improper searches.