Cities Dump Flock Cameras Amid Privacy Fears

Since the start of 2026, numerous cities have ended contracts with Flock Safety due to concerns over weak data privacy protections. Flock's AI-powered automated license plate readers (ALPR) and recently introduced drones are viewed by many as an extensive surveillance system.

Reports indicate law enforcement agencies have shared Flock data with federal bodies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This practice, combined with Flock's expansion into drone technology capable of tracking individuals, has intensified public outcry and prompted privacy advocates to call for stricter regulations.

Flock maintains that its cameras only capture license plates and vehicle details, not personal data, and that all data is encrypted and stored for 30 days. However, privacy advocates argue that vehicle information can be linked to owners, and Flock's AI capabilities can extend tracking to personal details. Despite Flock's stated privacy policies, instances of law enforcement misuse, including stalking and harassment, have been documented.

In response to growing concerns, some states are enacting legislation to limit ALPR data retention and sharing. Effective laws often mandate data deletion within strict timeframes, such as New Hampshire's 3-minute rule, or prohibit data sharing outside the state without a warrant.