From TechRadar · · 1m 30s
MapQuest shows you where the cameras are
MapQuest adds a surveillance layer mapping licence plate readers from Flock and other companies, winning back users concerned about privacy.
In brief
MapQuest adds a surveillance layer mapping licence plate readers from Flock and other companies, winning back users concerned about privacy. MapQuest added a surveillance layer showing locations of automated licence plate readers from Flock and other companies, drawing positive user reaction online. Originally…
MapQuest adds surveillance layer
MapQuest has added a new Surveillance Layer to its Android and iOS apps showing locations of automated licence plate readers from multiple companies.
Twelve companies' cameras mapped
The layer displays licence plate readers from Flock, Vigilant, Genetec, Axis, Axon, Leonardo, Neology, Rekor, PlateSmart, Ubicquia, Verkada and others.
Flock alone has 120,000 cameras
Flock has more than one hundred twenty thousand cameras installed around the US, so users will likely see many dots when they switch the layer on.
Flock says cameras prevent crime
Flock argues that automated licence plate readers cover more ground than police officers can do alone and help dispatch law enforcement resources more effectively.
Privacy concerns run deep
Citizens worry people with access may track the public without permission, stalk ex-partners, or misuse shared data. These incidents have happened multiple times.
Users praise the move online
Reactions to MapQuest's surveillance layer have been mostly positive online. One Redditor said, "This is how you win back users from Google."
“This is how you win back users from Google”
Users plan to switch to MapQuest
Others in online discussions say they plan to switch to MapQuest or have already done so because of the new surveillance layer feature.
What matters most
MapQuest added a surveillance layer showing locations of automated licence plate readers from Flock and other companies, drawing positive user reaction online.
