How to Find Out If There Are Flock Cameras Near You
The Atlas of Surveillance maintains the largest known database tracking police surveillance technologies across the US.
The Atlas of Surveillance is a free online tool that helps residents determine if they have Flock cameras in their area. Maintained by the Electronic Frontier Foundation and the University of Nevada, Reno, this database compiles police surveillance technology deployments across the United States using public records, news reports, and community submissions. It includes details on various surveillance technologies, such as drones, facial-recognition cameras, and body cameras.
To access the Atlas of Surveillance, users simply enter their city, county, state, law enforcement agency, or vendor in the US and select the technology they want to track. The tool generates a list of relevant information, including links to public records or news articles. This resource is particularly useful in cases where local council members may not be aware of certain surveillance tools being used in their community.
While the Atlas of Surveillance is a highly reliable source, it is not without limitations. Volunteers who contribute data rely on various sources, including government documents, press releases, news stories, and social media posts. However, surveillance cameras are increasingly being hidden in unconventional places, making self-reports less dependable.
For a more comprehensive understanding of police surveillance technology, it is recommended to use the Atlas of Surveillance in conjunction with the EFF's Street-Level Surveillance hub. This hub provides deeper documentation, including details on third-party vendors that collaborate with law enforcement. Users should also be aware that some cities may omit the name "Flock" when announcing new surveillance programs, even if they are using the brand's drones or ALPR cameras.
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