Flock camera locations revealed on MapQuest’s new Surveillance Layer

MapQuest has introduced a new feature in its mapping app called the Surveillance Layer. This feature plots the locations of known license plate readers from various brands, including Flock, Motorola Solutions, Genetec, Axis Communications, Axon, Leonardo, Neology, Rekor, PlateSmart, Ubicquia, Verkada, and others. By turning on the Surveillance Layer in Map Options, users can view these known ALPR cameras and their facing directions.

This tool allows individuals to avoid cameras if desired, potentially reducing their risk of being captured by an automatic license plate recognition system. The feature is reminiscent of a similar map built by a security researcher using Flock's data. Some argue that these systems aid in public safety by enhancing the ability to track suspects, while others view them as a severe invasion of privacy, citing instances of police misconduct and administrative errors.

In response to complaints, some cities have removed these systems. However, the introduction of MapQuest's Surveillance Layer could raise further privacy concerns, particularly if it connects to broader federal or national systems that allow for warrantless tracking of vehicles across jurisdictions.