Flock Profits by Invading Your Privacy

There are roughly 120,000 Flock cameras installed across the U.S., yet fewer than 1% of the cars they scan have been connected to a crime.Because there aren’t strict laws on how camera data can be collected, stored, and used, companies like Flock end up with enormous control over your personal information.Many communities across the country have already ended their Flock contracts or forced changes to how the cameras operate, from stricter data retention rules to limits on sharing with federal agencies.The de-Flock efforts are proof that public pressure can get a city to walk away from mass surveillance.The should matter to you because your State and local governments can quietly hand federal agencies a surveillance network they’d otherwise need a warrant to build.Flock’s database can be searched across agencies.ICE, the FBI, and other federal bodies have also reportedly tapped into local Flock networks -- combined with Wired’s reporting of AI based individual movement tracking without a license plate or suspected crime -- this is letting the federal government directly track people’s movements nationwide without oversight or mechanisms for accountability.Flock profits whether or not the system is used responsibly. Its business model depends on installing as many cameras as possible and collecting as much data as possible, giving the company little incentive to limit access, even as officers and agencies misuse the system for personal or political reasons.Oversight is nearly nonexistent. With no strict laws governing this data, there’s little to stop officials from using it to track political rivals, activists, journalists, or ordinary residents, turning a “public safety” tool into a means of unchecked government power.Actions You Can TakeGet your Sick of this Shit merch!* Check out the Sick of this Shop!Join the efforts to unmask law enforcement and de-flock the States:* deflock.meService members can get un-biased information on legal vs illegal orders:* Orders Project* Reach out on Signal: @TheOrdersProject.76Learn empathy forward, human centered, experiment based Leadership & Growth Courses for Higher Ed & Non-Profit Professionals:* B. Cognition LabsNick’s NotesI’m Nick Paro, and I’m sick of the shit going on. So, I’m using poetry, podcasting, and lives to discuss the intersections of chronic illness and mental wellbeing, masculinity, veteran’s issues, politics, and so much more. I am only able to have these conversations, bring visibility to my communities, and fill the void through your support — this is a publication where engagement is encouraged, creativity is a cornerstone, and transparency is key — please consider becoming a paid subscriber today and grow the community!Join the uncensored media at the 1A CollectiveSupport as a paid subscriber however you can — to help get you started, here are a few discounted options for you* Forever at 50% off* Forever at 60% offFor support, contact us at: [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sickofthis.substack.com/subscribe