Massachusetts Municipalities Discontinue Use of Flock Safety Cameras Amid Privacy Concerns
A growing number of municipalities across Massachusetts, including Barre, Stoughton, Barnstable, and Acushnet, have decided to end, suspend, or decline to renew contracts with Flock Safety, a company providing automatic license plate reader technology. This action follows increasing concerns regarding surveillance, data privacy, and government oversight. Wilmington recently canceled its contract, while Waltham has temporarily covered its cameras awaiting removal. Other communities such as Dartmouth, Ayer, and New Bedford have also terminated or opted not to renew agreements in 2026. Boston previously ended its pilot program in late 2025 due to a security lapse that exposed data. The American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts (ACLU) has highlighted that Flock's nationwide data-sharing network poses privacy risks by allowing law enforcement and private entities to access location information without warrants or reasonable suspicion. The ACLU also cited criticisms against Flock concerning cybersecurity p...
