New poll shows U.S. public turning against automated license plate surveillance

A YouGov survey of 20,000 Americans found 46% oppose police license plate cameras in their communities, while 38% support them—a reversal from last year's majority approval. The backlash follows reports of police misusing Flock's 120,000-plus cameras, leading many communities to cancel contracts. Respondents also indicated the surveillance does not make them feel safer, and critics like the ACLU argue Flock's recent safeguards are insufficient.

The YouGov survey, shared exclusively with The Washington Post, polled 20,000 Americans and marks a notable shift in public sentiment toward automated license plate readers. Flock, the most prominent company in this space, operates more than 120,000 cameras nationwide capable of tracking vehicle movements. The backlash follows documented incidents of police misusing the surveillance technology, prompting dozens of communities to reject or cancel their contracts with the company.

Flock has responded by touting recent safeguards, though the ACLU contends these measures are insufficient and that the technology remains a threat to civil liberties. The company's CEO, Garrett Langley, recently called for a "compromise" between surveillance and privacy, coinciding with a rise in vandalism targeting Flock cameras. Survey respondents also indicated the cameras would not make them feel safer.