U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) had direct access to a vast network of over 80,000 AI-powered automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras from the company Flock. This access was far more extensive than previously known, operating through what Flock described as “one-to-one” data sharing agreements under a “pilot program.” Public records from several police departments show CBP frequently searched this massive camera network, often with more extensive access than local police themselves. Some police departments were unaware they were sharing data with CBP, violating local or state policies against sharing data with federal agencies for immigration enforcement. In response to these revelations, Flock announced it has “paused all federal pilots” and will create clearer distinctions and permissions for federal agency access in its system to ensure local agencies have better control over their data sharing settings.
The data shows that CBP’s access to Flock’s network is far more robust and widespread than has been previously reported.