Automated license plate readers (ALPRs), including Flock cameras, have faced criticism across the United States recently. These devices, although commonly associated with the name Flock, are among various technologies used to capture vehicle information such as license plates, make, model, and color.

Flock’s technology claims to capture vehicles moving at speeds up to 100 MPH, night or day, from distances up to 75 feet. They categorize vehicles based on residency status, plate type, and any visible damage, like broken taillights. While Flock cameras cannot measure vehicle speeds, Genetec’s ALPR system can estimate them.

Motorola Solutions, accounting for about 5% of ALPR locations observed by DeFlock, offers technology that can identify vehicle accessories and unique characteristics, including damage or bumper stickers. Flock cameras capture images of vehicles passing by, but they do not track all vehicles or individuals within a jurisdiction.

“Camera locations come from volunteers and the OpenStreetMap community, not a private company or government agency,” explains DeFlock. Their crowdsourced map shows ALPR locations across the U.S., allowing exploration of local areas. Click here to view the map in a separate tab.

ALPRs have been utilized for decades, as stated in a U.S. Department of Homeland Security report. They are seen on poles, streetlights, overpasses, and even mobile units. They scan license plates to compare against databases, alerting law enforcement if needed, and facilitating information sharing between agencies. However, some locations have opted to cease using ALPRs due to privacy concerns and allegations of misuse.

Communities in various states, including North Carolina, Indiana, Colorado, and Wisconsin, have taken steps to stop ALPR usage. Florida’s Department of Transportation has removed cameras from highways due to privacy issues and misuse concerns, as has Texas by withdrawing state funding. Despite pushback, President Trump expressed support for ALPRs, citing their benefit to law enforcement.

“No, I sort of like them because of that, because of law enforcement. But some people don’t. They think it’s an infringement,” Trump stated, commenting on the Flock cameras.

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