MapQuest adds surveillance layer to dodge license plate readers

MapQuest rolled out a Surveillance layer in its mobile app that maps automated license plate readers (ALPRs) near users and along their routes. The US has an estimated 140,000 such cameras, more than 120,000 of them from Flock Safety.

• The layer is toggled on via the Surveillance switch in the MapQuest app
• Cameras appear on the map as small eyeball icons
• About 140,000 ALPRs operate in the US, over 120,000 from Flock Safety
• ACLU says fewer than 1% of scanned cars are linked to a crime