Flock Has a Powerful New AI Tool for Police. We Got Its Code (www.wired.com)

Flock Safety, known for its vehicle surveillance technology, has developed a new AI tool for police that can identify and track vehicles and drivers based solely on their movement patterns. Previously, the company maintained that its technology could not recognize individuals, but the newly launched OS Investigate system utilizes a vast network of cameras across over 6,000 communities, enabling law enforcement to identify potential witnesses and connections between individuals based on their vehicular patterns. The tool is equipped with 69 pre-written prompts that guide officers to conduct searches using geographic and behavioral parameters, significantly expanding the potential for tracking individuals without prior knowledge of a license plate or crimes committed. This development raises significant privacy and constitutional concerns, as it effectively allows law enforcement to surveil and suspect individuals based on their driving behaviors, independent of any specific criminal suspicion. The AI's capabilities integrate with police case files, 911 logs, and commercial identity records, enabling detailed background checks and the ability to create profiles based on driving habits. Critics argue that such tools blur the lines between legitimate law enforcement efforts and intrusive surveillance, prompting fears of misuse and erosion of civil liberties. As Flock tests OS Investigate with select law enforcement agencies, the implications for policing and public trust in technology remain contentious.