From Business Insider · Lauren Edmonds · · 1m 30s
MapQuest adds surveillance camera tracker to its app
MapQuest now lets drivers see license plate reader cameras on their route, as backlash against the surveillance technology grows.
In brief
MapQuest now lets drivers see license plate reader cameras on their route, as backlash against the surveillance technology grows. MapQuest launched a surveillance layer showing license plate reader camera locations after users requested it, amid growing privacy concerns about the technology. Originally reported by…
MapQuest launches surveillance layer
MapQuest unveiled a new mobile app feature on Thursday allowing users to turn on a surveillance layer to locate automated license plate readers along their route.
Which cameras does it show
The app can identify cameras developed by Flock Safety, Axon Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, PlateSmart, Genetec, Axis Communications, Leonardo, Neology, Rekor, Ubicquia, Verkada and other outdoor surveillance cameras.
Why MapQuest added the feature
MapQuest General Manager Doug Berger said drivers inspired the company to add it. Showing surveillance camera locations is one of users' top three requests.
“showing surveillance camera locations is one of our users' top three requests”
How license plate readers work
License plate readers capture vehicle images and use machine learning to turn details like plate numbers, car make, color and model into searchable data. They're found at intersections, parking lots, roadways, highways and neighborhood entrances.
Growing backlash against cameras
Critics say the cameras raise privacy concerns and collected data can be misused or shared with federal immigration officials. Some people have staged protests, launched petitions and forcibly removed cameras.
Cities shut down camera networks
The city of Tempe in Arizona shut down its Flock Safety camera network in August and planned to terminate its contract. Tempe Mayor Corey Woods said the risk of misuse was too great.
“the risk of misuse is too great”
In short
MapQuest launched a surveillance layer showing license plate reader camera locations after users requested it, amid growing privacy concerns about the technology.
