A cybersecurity researcher has published a map showing a network of over 300,000 Flock devices, including more than 170,000 cameras. This number is significantly higher than Flock Safety's previous public statement of approximately 120,000 cameras, as reported by IJR. A brand-protection firm, Doppel, has since filed a trademark complaint to remove the map.
This development raises questions for drivers about the extent of license plate reader (ALPR) surveillance and how it affects their privacy. Knowing where these cameras are located can help you make informed decisions about your routes. You can explore our live camera map for more details.
Why is Flock Safety trying to remove this map?
Cybersecurity researcher Joshua Michael created the "Flock Surveillance Map" using Flock location data he obtained from a publicly exposed login key. He informed Flock about the data leak in November 2025, but the company did not address the issue until he contacted them a third time. Flock Safety has not publicly commented on the map or the attempt to remove it.
Critics argue that Flock Safety, a company that collects and stores driver data, should prioritize user privacy over its own. Chad Marlow, senior policy counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), said it is "ridiculous that a company that clearly does not care about other people’s privacy at all is suddenly incredibly worried about its own privacy."
What does this mean for drivers and their privacy?
The revelation of a larger-than-advertised network of Flock cameras means more roads and neighborhoods are under surveillance. Each ALPR camera records vehicle data, which can include license plate numbers, timestamps, and locations. This data is often shared with law enforcement agencies.
Alex Marthews, national chair of Restore The Fourth, stated, "Surveillance vendors are often secretive about how many devices they deploy and where." He added that "every ALPR camera infringes on Americans’ privacy." This situation emphasizes the importance of understanding how ALPRs work and what data they collect. You can learn more about ALPRs and their implications on our learn page.
Lawmakers have also expressed concerns about Flock Safety's data security and privacy practices. Senator Josh Hawley noted in a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing that if you haven’t heard of Flock, "Flock’s probably heard of you." The company's CEO did not attend this hearing, where Michael's research was cited.
Flock Safety is currently hiring a Public Policy Manager to "conduct legal research, track legislative changes, and draft critical communications." This new role suggests the company aims to manage its public image and address policy concerns as scrutiny increases.