Fixing Flock: controls needed after misuse patterns emerge

CSO Online analyzed misuse of Flock Safety's camera network: 120,000 cameras across 49 states logging about 20 billion plate observations a month. Flock set a seven-day default retention, mandatory MFA and search auditing, but experts call for stricter, graduated controls.

• Flock network: 120,000 cameras in 49 states, 20 billion plate reads a month
• Since Aug 13, 2026, ordinary plate records default to seven-day retention
• Case codes and MFA required for law-enforcement searches by end of 2026
• Experts urge graduated retention with public approval and independent audits