Are cops stalking you with a nationwide camera network? (Inside Flock)
Summary
This episode of No Such Thing investigates Flock, a massive network of AI-powered license plate readers used by police across the US. Hosts Noah and Devin join Washington Post reporter Drew Harwell to discuss how officers have misused the technology to stalk ex-partners and harass citizens, often without oversight. The discussion covers Flock’s origins, the lack of audit trails, and recent public backlash that has led some cities to cancel contracts. Finally, they analyze Flock’s new safety measures, such as mandatory case numbers for searches, and question whether these changes are suffici…
Topics discussed
Intro and Ad Breaks
Police Stalking Case: Marcy Bley and Flock Cameras
Flock Origins, Business Model, and Expansion
Misuse Cases: Exes, Strangers, and False Positives
Ad Breaks
Public Backlash, Privacy Concerns, and Flock's Defense
Flock's Policy Updates and Ad Breaks
Critique of Updates and Conclusion
Outro and Final Ad Breaks
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