Kathmandu— The deployment of Flock cameras – automated license plate readers and video surveillance systems – is facing increasing public resistance across the United States, with reports of intentional damage to the devices rising sharply. While proponents claim the technology aids in crime prevention, critics raise concerns about privacy violations and potential misuse, leading to protests and acts of vandalism in multiple cities. The company’s cameras are now present in at least 4,000 cities, but opposition is mounting from both sides of the political spectrum.

Rising Public Backlash

As more US police departments deploy Flock cameras to monitor traffic and track individuals, public backlash has grown. In San Diego, a protester dressed as Darth Vader attended a city council meeting to voice opposition, framing Flock technology as a tool for surveillance. There are now over 130,000 Flock cameras across the country, installed by law enforcement departments on intersections, parking lots, and other public spaces. While Flock Technologies asserts that the cameras have assisted in preventing crimes like burglaries and homicides, opponents argue they infringe upon civil liberties.

Concerns Over Data Security and Misuse

Flock’s technology includes Falcon ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition) cameras which capture vehicle images, as well as Condor PTZ video cameras capable of tracking individuals using AI. Recent reports have highlighted potential for misuse; the Washington Post reported that Flock's Falcon ALPR cameras have been used by over 50 police officers to stalk women without their consent. Furthermore, vulnerabilities in the company’s software have led to images of children recorded by its video cameras being exposed online.

Vandalism and Legislative Challenges

The rollout of Flock cameras has not been without incident. Across the country, devices have been targeted with acts of vandalism – shot at, spray-painted, cut down, or obstructed. According to FlockStats, a website tracking these incidents, at least 162 Flock cameras have been destroyed nationwide. Simultaneously, legislative challenges are emerging; Republican Representative Thomas Massie has proposed a bill to withhold federal funding from police departments using the technology, and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, a Democrat, has ordered cities to pause installations pending new privacy legislation.

Dramatic Protest in San Diego

During a San Diego City Council meeting on Wednesday, an individual dressed as Darth Vader made a statement regarding Flock cameras. The protester, adopting the character’s signature mechanical breathing, declared, “The Emperor is a fan of Flock, and we must continue utilising Flock technologies so that we can surveil the rebel scum.” He continued with a satirical argument about tracking individuals, including children, using the technology.

Opposition to Flock cameras appears likely to persist as concerns over privacy and potential misuse remain prominent. The legislative efforts in Connecticut and at the federal level suggest a growing scrutiny of this surveillance technology.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.