Benn Jordan discusses Flock, privacy, and growing surveillance opposition
Musician and YouTuber Benn Jordan talks with The Verge about his investigations into Flock Safety, a maker of automatic license plate readers and related software. He recently testified before Congress as criticism of Flock and ALPR systems grows, leading many local governments to cancel contracts and the company to plan workforce cuts. The conversation covers privacy concerns and the broader backlash against surveillance technology.
Benn Jordan is a longtime experimental musician who has more recently gained attention as a YouTuber, researcher, and investigative journalist. His reporting centers on Flock Safety, which makes automatic license plate readers and supporting software. He recently testified before a Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing focused on Flock and other ALPR systems.
That hearing followed months of bipartisan criticism. Many cities and counties have ended contracts with Flock, Sen. Josh Hawley is investigating the company, and Reuters reported it plans to cut roughly 18 percent of its workforce. Jordan says he does not oppose Flock alone; he sees Axon and Motorola building similar networks and wants transparency about government, industry, and law enforcement ties.
The growing scrutiny may affect residents, local governments, police agencies, and surveillance vendors. Communities could gain more say over camera networks and data access, while police may face tighter rules or lose tools they value. Flock and competitors may adjust products, contracts, or lobbying. Because ALPR systems can touch anyone driving or walking in monitored areas, the debate could shape expectations about privacy, transparency, and oversight beyond one company.