Flock Safety Overhauls Privacy Protocols Amid Backlash

Flock Safety announced a major overhaul of its privacy and security protocols on Thursday, August 13, 2026, in response to growing public backlash and documented cases of law enforcement abuse of its automated license plate reader technology. The Atlanta-based company, which operates a network of more than 119,000 cameras nationwide, is implementing a series of mandatory reforms aimed at increasing accountability and addressing concerns from civil liberties advocates and communities.

The most significant change is a reduction in the standard data retention period from 30 days to seven days. Previously, all data captured by the cameras was automatically deleted after a month. The company stated that approximately 90% of all searches on its system already occur within a week of data collection. For investigations requiring longer access, Flock is introducing an "Evidence Mode" that allows agencies to preserve data tied to a specific case number at no additional cost.

In a move to prevent unauthorized searches, Flock is making its Audit Assistance tool mandatory for all law enforcement customers. This feature automatically flags abnormal search behavior, and when such activity is...