Cambridge City Council Halts Use of License Plate Cameras Over Data Concerns

The Cambridge City Council has suspended the use of Flock Safety cameras due to rising concerns about the potential sharing of data with federal authorities. This decision comes just months after the council approved the installation of these automatic license plate readers in February 2023, intended to aid police in criminal investigations.

Concerns Over Data Sharing Practices

Vice Mayor Marc McGovern expressed significant unease regarding recent revelations about Flock Safety’s data-sharing practices. “We sort of thought we had a solid contract with Flock, that we would be able to protect the information,” McGovern stated. “We’ve come to learn that it’s not quite as solid as maybe we had thought it was.” He highlighted troubling reports suggesting that the data could be utilized to target individuals without criminal warrants, raising ethical questions about privacy and surveillance.

Community advocates and residents have voiced their concerns to city officials in recent months, prompting a shift in perspective among council members. McGovern remarked, “People change their minds all the time when you get new information. Some of us were more comfortable with this in February and none of us are comfortable with it today.”

Political Support for Surveillance Technology

Despite the council’s decision, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her support for the responsible use of surveillance technology in law enforcement. “Cameras are ubiquitous, they are all over the place. They have been used to solve crime and to deter crime,” Healey noted. She emphasized the importance of safeguards, including data preservation, while advocating for technology that assists in crime investigation and deterrence.

As the city seeks alternative solutions, McGovern is hopeful that a new approach and potentially a different company for security cameras can be established.

Flock Safety, in response to the council’s decision, issued a statement to WBZ News, asserting, “We respect the Cambridge City Council’s decision and will work closely with the City to provide any information or support needed during its review process.” The company contended that allegations regarding its relationship with federal agencies are unfounded, adding that such inquiries have led to improvements in their products.

The suspension of the Flock Safety cameras reflects a growing awareness of privacy concerns within law enforcement practices. As cities navigate the complexities of modern surveillance technology, the balance between public safety and individual privacy continues to be a focal point of discussion.