How much safer do Flock cameras make us?
Summary
This episode examines the economics and effectiveness of Flock, a network of automated license plate readers now worth over $8 billion. Hosts Ricky Mulvey and Wayne Wong discuss a study by Scott Morcas showing that while Flock cameras reduce vehicle theft by 11%, they are not magic bullets due to limited coverage. The show also highlights significant privacy concerns, including misuse to track protesters, undocumented immigrants, and individuals seeking legal medical care, which has led some cities to pause contracts.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Flock cameras and public backlash
Flock's growth, value, and intended police use
Misuse cases and episode overview
Sponsor segments: Superhuman, Dell, and Bombas
Difference between Flock and traditional ALPRs
Data retention policies and legal tracking concerns
Challenges in solving car thefts without Flock
Economic study design and camera costs
Study results: modest reduction in vehicle theft
Limitations of the study and Flock's press release
Balancing positive and negative outcomes
Tracking protesters, immigrants, and legal activities
Case study: Tracking a woman for an abortion
Cities pausing contracts and Flock's response
False positives and data sharing concerns
Outro, credits, and final sponsor reads
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