Loss Prevention Media reports that the Security Industry Association (SIA) has called for the responsible and effective use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology. The trade group also released policy principles to guide state and federal action on the technology. The report is dated September 10, 2026.
What is the Security Industry Association recommending?
SIA's guidance covers the technology and its data, constitutional protections, and what it calls concerns about "warrantless" use. It also includes policy principles meant to guard against misuse, protect privacy and set safeguards for police use, while keeping the public safety benefits. Loss Prevention Media lists examples of effectiveness and recommended resources as well.
The statement says ALPR data helps police prevent or respond to attacks, solve violent crimes, find missing people and enforce protective orders. It also says the data can rule out innocent people in an investigation. Loss Prevention Media says the group sees commercial uses too, including parking management, access control and retail services.
Does the guidance admit police have misused the cameras?
Yes. The statement says there have been "very serious and verified cases" of abuse by law enforcement personnel in a number of US jurisdictions. It calls those incidents unacceptable and says they need policy responses.
SIA CEO Don Erickson said ALPR must never become a tool for mass surveillance or for tracking law-abiding citizens. Erickson called for stronger accountability for government use and enforcement mechanisms against misuse.
What changes for drivers?
Nothing in the report changes a camera on any street. Loss Prevention Media describes the principles as guidance for future state and federal action. It does not describe a rule that applies now, and it does not name any camera operator or city.
The statement also condemns vandalism of ALPR cameras, which it calls a crime, and threats against the people who work for ALPR providers. Loss Prevention Media notes that a video game lets players destroy ALPR cameras, and that citizens have destroyed cameras in some communities.
Loss Prevention Media does not say which states or federal agencies, if any, will adopt the principles, or when. To see which cameras are mapped near you, check the camera map. For background on how these readers work, read how plate readers work.