Flock, a controversial automated license plate reader company, has launched a voluntary severance program as dozens of cities cancel contracts with the surveillance firm.
The buyout offer comes as municipal customers increasingly distance themselves from Flock's technology over privacy concerns. Cities across the country have terminated agreements with the company, citing public opposition to widespread automated plate reading systems.
Flock's license plate readers capture and store images of vehicles, creating databases that privacy advocates argue enable mass surveillance. The technology has drawn scrutiny from civil liberties organizations and sparked backlash in communities where it was deployed.
The severance program represents a significant shift for Flock, which has faced mounting pressure from customers and advocacy groups. The company has not disclosed how many employees may be affected or the terms of the voluntary packages.
This development reflects broader concerns about surveillance technology adoption at the municipal level, as cities reassess the privacy implications of automated monitoring systems.
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