Posts

Aug

2025

The Human Toll of ALPR Errors

Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) are increasingly used by law enforcement to identify stolen vehicles. However, the technology is prone to errors that can lead to wrongful detentions and dangerous confrontations. This article by Gowri Nayar, a legal intern at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), explores several alarming incidents highlighting the human cost of these errors, particularly among marginalized communities.

3 min read

Menlo Park Police Broke State Law, Shared License Plate Data Out of State

Aug

2025

License Plate Readers

Menlo Park Police Broke State Law, Shared License Plate Data Out of State

Menlo Park police inadvertently shared automated license plate reader (ALPR) data with out-of-state law enforcement agencies, violating California law. This breach, which was not disclosed until questioned by The Almanac, raises significant concerns about privacy and oversight surrounding the use of surveillance technology.

4 min read

The Rise of Surveillance: How Facial Recognition Is Impacting Your Privacy

Aug

2025

Facial Recognition

The Rise of Surveillance: How Facial Recognition Is Impacting Your Privacy

Facial recognition technology is increasingly being used by landlords and government agencies, raising serious privacy concerns. Albert Foxconn from STOP discusses the implications of surveillance capitalism, the emergence of fusion centers, and the need for public awareness and action against these invasive practices.

4 min read

Louisiana Attorney General Calls for School Zone Ticket Refunds, Warns of Criminal Probe

Aug

2025

School Zone Cameras

Louisiana Attorney General Calls for School Zone Ticket Refunds, Warns of Criminal Probe

The Louisiana Attorney General, Liz Murrill, has demanded a full refund for speeding tickets issued to New Orleans drivers in school zones during the 2024-2025 school year. This demand arises from concerns that the city violated state law by activating speed cameras without a necessary revenue-sharing agreement with local school districts. Murrill has also warned of potential criminal charges if the city continues to operate these cameras unlawfully.

3 min read

Warrantless Use of License Plate Reader Cameras Is Unconstitutional

Aug

2025

License Plate Readers

Warrantless Use of License Plate Reader Cameras Is Unconstitutional

The Institute for Justice (I.J.) has launched the Plate Privacy Project, a national campaign aimed at combating the warrantless surveillance enabled by automatic license plate readers (ALPRs). This initiative highlights growing concerns over privacy violations as law enforcement agencies increasingly utilize these technologies without proper oversight or legal justification.

4 min read

Interim Study Over Use and Misuse of Traffic Cameras

Aug

2025

License Plate Readers

Interim Study Over Use and Misuse of Traffic Cameras

An interim study has been conducted to evaluate the use and potential misuse of traffic cameras across various jurisdictions. This analysis aims to shed light on the effectiveness of these cameras in enhancing road safety and reducing traffic violations, while also addressing concerns regarding their potential misuse for revenue generation rather than public safety.

4 min read

Surveillance Company Flock Now Using AI to Report Us to Police if It Thinks Our Movement Patterns Are "Suspicious"

Aug

2025

License Plate Readers

Surveillance Company Flock Now Using AI to Report Us to Police if It Thinks Our Movement Patterns Are "Suspicious"

Flock Safety, a surveillance technology company, has recently expanded its capabilities by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze movement patterns of individuals, flagging those deemed "suspicious" to law enforcement. This development raises significant concerns regarding privacy, civil liberties, and the potential for misuse of surveillance technologies.

3 min read

Fake Parking Violation Notice Plastered on Car in Portland Could Lead to Fines

Aug

2025

Scams

Fake Parking Violation Notice Plastered on Car in Portland Could Lead to Fines

A recent incident in Portland, Maine, has raised concerns among residents after a Reddit user reported receiving a fake parking violation notice on their vehicle. This unauthorized notice has sparked confusion within the community, potentially leading to unwarranted fines for unsuspecting drivers.

3 min read

Hertz Customers Charged for Minor Damages by AI Scanners Can Fight Back Using These Phone Apps

Aug

2025

Hertz Customers Charged for Minor Damages by AI Scanners Can Fight Back Using These Phone Apps

As rental car companies increasingly rely on artificial intelligence (AI) to assess vehicle damage, customers are finding themselves facing hefty charges for minor issues. This article explores how apps like Proofr are empowering renters to contest these charges, leveling the playing field against corporate practices that some view as exploitative.

3 min read